[Radiological features of interstitial lung diseases]

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Pulmonology
• Pathology

Background:

• Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) require interdisciplinary diagnosis involving radiology, pneumology, and pathology.
• Computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for ILD diagnosis, relying on specific radiological signs and patterns.
• Visual assessment of ILDs is subjective and prone to inter- and intraobserver variability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the role of radiology in diagnosing ILDs.
• To discuss the limitations of visual assessment in ILD diagnosis.
• To explore advancements in computer-aided analysis and modern CT techniques for ILD evaluation.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing computed tomography (CT) to identify radiological signs like interlobular septal thickening and nodular changes.
• Deriving radiological patterns (e.g., usual interstitial pneumonia) from identified signs and their distribution.
• Employing computer-aided analysis, including density distribution, texture analysis, and artificial intelligence, for quantification and characterization of lung parenchyma.
• Leveraging modern dual-energy CT methods for combined morphological and functional assessment.

Main Results:

• Radiological patterns derived from CT findings aid in differential diagnosis of ILDs.
• Computer-aided analysis enables objective quantification and monitoring of ILD progression.
• Advanced CT techniques provide regional insights into lung morphology, ventilation, and perfusion.

Conclusions:

• Radiology is crucial for interdisciplinary ILD diagnosis, with CT providing essential diagnostic information.
• Computer-aided analysis and dual-energy CT offer promising advancements to overcome limitations of visual assessment and improve ILD evaluation.
• These technological advancements facilitate more accurate characterization and monitoring of interstitial lung changes.