High-Resolution CT: The Cutting-Edge Tool Transforming Interstitial Lung Disease Diagnosis

Abstract

Introduction: Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs) comprise a diverse group of disorders that primarily affect the lung interstitium, leading to inflammation or fibrosis, which impairs gas exchange and diminishes quality of life. Accurate diagnosis and classification of ILD types are crucial for effective management, and High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) has emerged as a superior diagnostic tool compared to conventional imaging methods.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the role of HRCT in the diagnosis of ILD, emphasizing its diagnostic accuracy and pattern recognition capabilities in a diverse patient population.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over 24 months at the Department of Radiodiagnosis, Sri Siddhartha Medical College & Hospital, Tumkur, including 98 patients with suspected ILD. HRCT scans were performed using a 16-slice CT scanner, and findings were analyzed to identify specific ILD patterns such as ground-glass opacities, honeycombing, and traction bronchiectasis. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The study found that ground-glass opacities were the most common HRCT pattern, present in 72.45% of cases, followed by traction bronchiectasis and subpleural involvement. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) was the most frequent diagnosis, comprising 28.57% of cases. The study population had a balanced gender distribution, with a predominance of middle-aged and older adults. Smoking was notably prevalent in IPF patients.

Conclusion: HRCT plays a critical role in the accurate diagnosis and classification of ILDs, allowing for better management and improved patient outcomes. The study highlights the importance of HRCT in identifying distinct ILD patterns and underscores the impact of factors such as age and smoking status on disease prevalence.