Conventional and High-Resolution CT in Diagnosis of Occupational Lung Diseases: A Comparative Study — Preliminary Results

Summary

Twenty four asbestos and silica-exposed individuals were evaluated by means of conventional computed tomography (CT) and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). The aspects of asbestosis and silicosis and the diagnostic value of both methods were compared. The accuracy of each method was evaluated for the following abnormalities: nodules, masses, curvilinear subpleural lines, thickened interlobular lines, irregular interfaces, honeycombing, subpleural dependent density, parenchymal bands, ground-glass opacities, emphysema, subpleural blebs, rounded atelectasis, segmental or sub-segmental atelectasis, and hyaline and calcified pleural plaques. The diagnostic value of each technique is also estimated. HRCT is much more accurate in detecting curvilinear subpleural lines, thickened interlobular lines, irregular interfaces, honeycombing, ground-glass opacities and subpleural blebs. Conventional CT is dramatically more reliable for detection of small nodules. For the other abnormalities, our study was too limited by the relatively small number of cases to permit a definitive conclusion. We concluded on the basis of the preliminary report that both conventional and high-resolution computed tomography should be used in the examination of patient with occupational chest diseases.