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The idiopathic interstitial pneumonias
1Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. cwittram@partners.org
Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
|October 2, 2004
Summary
This review details seven idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs), including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Radiologic patterns and diagnostic criteria for each IIP are described to aid in accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs) are a group of lung diseases with unknown causes.
- Accurate diagnosis of IIPs is crucial for appropriate patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the seven idiopathic interstitial pneumonias as defined by the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society.
- To describe the characteristic radiologic patterns associated with each IIP.
Main Methods:
- Review of the literature and established diagnostic criteria for IIPs.
- Description of radiologic findings, including CT scan features.
Main Results:
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (usual interstitial pneumonia) shows basal/subpleural ground glass, reticular opacities, and honeycomb lung.
- Nonspecific interstitial pneumonia presents with subpleural/basal ground glass and reticular opacities.
- Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia, acute interstitial pneumonia, respiratory bronchiolitis-associated interstitial lung disease, desquamative interstitial pneumonia, and lymphoid interstitial pneumonia have distinct radiologic manifestations.
Conclusions:
- Each of the seven IIPs has specific radiologic features that aid in diagnosis.
- A comprehensive review of clinicoradiologic and pathologic data is essential for accurate IIP diagnosis.