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Summary
The end-stage lung describes irreversible diffuse lung disease with widespread cystic spaces. This common, nonspecific appearance results from various injuries, indicating severe lung damage.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- The lung exhibits a limited response to persistent injury.
- This can lead to a common pathological and radiological appearance known as the end-stage lung.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the morphological concept of the end-stage lung.
- To describe its pathological characteristics and radiological manifestations.
Main Methods:
- Review of pathological and radiological features of diffuse lung disease.
- Analysis of common pathways of lung injury response.
Main Results:
- End-stage lung is characterized by cystic spaces due to alveolar septal dissolution, bronchiolectasia, and obstructive emphysema.
- Cystic spaces are the primary radiological sign of severe, irreversible lung damage.
- Associated findings may include pleural thickening, cor pulmonale, pneumothorax, calcific nodules, and scar carcinoma.
Conclusions:
- The end-stage lung represents a final common pathway for diverse lung injuries.
- Radiological identification of cystic spaces signifies irreversible damage and poor prognosis.