High-resolution CT of the lungs: Indications and diagnosis

High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is a method of examination which is more precise than chest 2-rat in the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases of the lung tissue and the airways. Modern CT equipment enables a volume HRCT scan covering the whole lung tissue. HRCT slices can also be constructed from contrast-enhanced CT scans of the chest of the whole body. HRCT of the lungs can be applied to the diagnosis of both acute and more chronic diffuse diseases of the lung tissue and the airways. The best-known indications for HRCT include idiopathic interstitial pneumonias, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. High-resolution computed tomography has also become established in the diagnostics of pneumoconiosis, such as asbestosis. More acute indications for HRCT include various inflammations, drug reactions and diffuse alveolar injury. Medical history plays a central role in the interpretation of lung HRCT, because a finding in imaging examination is often unspecific. A good test requisition is therefore important.