Diseases Involving the Lung Peribronchovascular Region: A CT Imaging Pathologic Classification

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Pulmonology
• Pathology

Background:

• The peribronchovascular region, including pulmonary arteries, airways, and interstitium, is frequently affected by lung diseases.
• Understanding the anatomy and pathology of this region is key for accurate diagnosis on CT imaging.
• Diffuse lung diseases often present with characteristic patterns in the peribronchovascular distribution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the anatomic and pathologic features of the lung interstitium.
• To discuss diffuse lung diseases presenting in a peribronchovascular distribution on CT imaging.
• To propose a classification approach for peribronchovascular diseases based on imaging patterns.

Main Methods:

• Review of current knowledge on lung interstitium anatomy and pathology.
• Analysis of CT imaging features of diffuse lung diseases in the peribronchovascular region.
• Development of a categorization strategy for peribronchovascular diseases based on imaging presentations.

Main Results:

• Peribronchovascular diseases manifest on CT as thickening, fibrosis, masses, consolidation, or cysts.
• Specific anatomic structures like lymphatics and bronchial arteries are integral to the peribronchovascular interstitium.
• Diseases can exhibit multiple imaging presentations, requiring careful interpretation.

Conclusions:

• A category-based approach to peribronchovascular diseases on CT imaging is effective.
• Integrating imaging findings with clinical features enhances diagnostic accuracy.
• This approach supports a multidisciplinary strategy for diagnosing lung diseases affecting the peribronchovascular region.