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99mTc-DTPA clearance in bullous emphysema
Nuklearmedizin. Nuclear Medicine
|August 1, 1985
Summary
In bullous emphysema, the alveolar-capillary barrier permeability, measured by technetium-99m diethylenetriamine penta-acetate (99mTc-DTPA) clearance, may increase in lung fields with bullae.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Radiopharmacology
Background:
- Alveolar-capillary barrier permeability to solutes is linked to epithelial pore radius.
- Bullous emphysema presents a natural model where bulla tension may increase this radius.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if 99mTc-DTPA clearance is faster in lung fields affected by bullous emphysema.
- To assess the relationship between bulla characteristics and alveolar-capillary barrier function.
Main Methods:
- Measured 99mTc-DTPA clearance in six patients with bullous emphysema.
- Evaluated lung fields containing bullae communicating with the bronchial tree.
Main Results:
- Observed either increased or normal 99mTc-DTPA clearance over bullae-containing lung fields.
- Findings partially confirm the hypothesis of increased permeability in bullous emphysema.
Conclusions:
- Alveolar-capillary barrier permeability in bullous emphysema can be altered.
- Variations in bulla size, tension, and surrounding lung tissue influence clearance rates.