Influence of High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) in Reviewing The Diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Abstract

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disorder characterized by airflow limitation and an abnormal inflammatory response of the airways result in air way obstruction with little reversibility. It includes two conditions chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD is predicted to be the third worldwide cause of mortality by 2020 1. Objectives: To assess the role of HRCT in identifying other conditions that might coexist with COPD like pulmonary fibrosis which may need to add other treatment modalities or even change the diagnosis. Methods: study conducted in AlSader Medical City, Najaf province. 16 patients suffering from COPD. Pulmonary function test had been done to confirm diagnosis. FEV1/FVC ratio greater then 70% post bronchodilator. Then patients had Patients HRCT scan. Results: The HRCT imaging study results showed eight patients had emphysematous changes, four patients had both emphysema and interstitial lung fibrosis, two patients with traction bronchiectasis, one patient had apical fibrosis, and another one had features of possible lung neoplasm. Conclusion: HRCT scan has a significant role in identifying other lung conditions that might coexist with COPD. HRCT scan need to be considered in following up the patients with COPD. Lager studies need to be conducted and having a lung tissue biopsy would be helpful in cases where the diagnosis is difficult to make.