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Functional and high-resolution computed tomographic studies of divers' lungs
M Reuter1, K Tetzlaff, J C Steffens
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Christian-Albrechts-University, Kiel, Germany.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|April 16, 1999
Summary
Diving may impact lung function, with navy divers showing reduced expiratory flow rates. However, high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) did not reveal significant small airway disease in divers.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Diving Physiology
- Radiology
Background:
- Previous studies suggest diving decreases expiratory flow rates.
- The development of small airway obstruction in divers requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and lung function testing support the hypothesis of small airway obstruction in divers.
- To correlate diving exposure with pulmonary function parameters.
Main Methods:
- Pulmonary function testing and HRCT were performed on 32 navy divers, 27 commercial divers, and 48 referents.
- Multivariate regression analysis assessed correlations between diving exposure, age, smoking history, and lung function.
- Expiratory HRCT scans were used to evaluate air trapping and airway morphology.
Main Results:
- Navy divers exhibited lower forced vital capacity (FVC) and maximum expiratory flow (MEF) compared to referents.
- Diving years correlated negatively with forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV10), FEV%, MEF75, and MEF25, independent of other factors.
- HRCT showed minor lobular air trapping in most participants but no significant airway abnormalities or differences between groups.
Conclusions:
- Diving can affect pulmonary function, particularly expiratory flow rates.
- No radiologic evidence of small airway disease was found in navy or commercial divers using HRCT.