[Characteristics of pneumoconiosis on multi-detector row CT and its' anatomic-pathologic basis]

In order to investigate the fine distinction of the tomographic images and the dominant anatomic distributions, we carefully reviewed and analyzed the features and predominant anatomic distribution of forty-nine pneumoconiosis patients with confirmed diagnosis on multi-detector row CT (MDCT). It was found that the round and small opacity p and irregular small opacity were mostly shown in the MDCT features of pneumoconiosis, while the large opacity and progressive massive fibrosis (PMF) were less frequently depicted in the MDCT. Distributions of round and small opacity and irregular small opacity in the six lung lobes were significantly different (P < 0.01). The most common p opacity was significantly seen in the upper and lower left lungs as well as in the upper right lung's opacity was in the upper left lung as well as lower left and right lungs. The large opacity commonly distributed in upper left and right lungs, while the PMF was often shown in both of two lungs. The results demonstrated that the MDCT could be an effective modality for detecting tiny lesions and anatomic distribution of pneumoconiosis, and it would be helpful for early diagnosis and accurate staging of the pneumoconiosis disease.