The qualitative and quantitative high-resolution computed tomography in the evaluation of interstitial lung diseases

Abstract

Background: High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is the most accepted imaging tool for the detection, characterization, and monitoring of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). The correct interpretation of HRCT findings still represents often a problem for the radiologists since there is wide interobserver variability. Therefore, a quantitative and noninvasive imaging method able to permit an accurate assessment of ILD is highly desirable. The purpose of this study is to compare the visual method and quantitative CT histogram in the evaluation of ILDs and to identify the best quantitative parameter in the prediction of severity of ILDs. Results: There is a correlation between the HRCT score by the qualitative method and CT histogram parameters by the quantitative method in the evaluation of ILDs. Total lung volume inspiratory, mean lung density expiratory, and high attenuation area expiratory showed a significant correlation with the HRCT score. Conclusion: The single best predictor of fibrosis severity in interstitial lung disease is HAAs % expiratory.