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Hyperinflation in asthma and emphysema. Assessment by pulmonary function testing and computed tomography.
M Kinsella1, N L Müller, C Staples
1Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Canada.
Chest
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Chronic asthma with severe hyperinflation does not cause emphysema. Smokers with high total lung capacity (TLC) showed emphysema, unlike asthma patients, indicating distinct pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Chronic asthma and emphysema can both cause airflow limitation and hyperinflation.
- The relationship between severe hyperinflation in asthma and the development of emphysema is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether chronic asthma with severe hyperinflation leads to emphysema.
- To differentiate the causes of hyperinflation in asthma versus smokers.
Main Methods:
- Studied 20 subjects with irreversible airflow limitation: 10 with asthma (non-smokers) and 10 smokers.
- Performed pulmonary function testing and chest computed tomography (CT) scans.
- Graded emphysema severity using CT scan scores.
Main Results:
- Median emphysema score was 0% in non-smokers and 10% in smokers.
- Smokers with total lung capacity (TLC) > 120% predicted had CT-diagnosed emphysema.
- Asthma patients with TLC > 120% predicted did not show identifiable emphysema on CT scans.
Conclusions:
- Chronic asthma with severe hyperinflation does not cause emphysema.
- Emphysema in hyperinflated lungs is likely due to smoking, not asthma itself.