[Asbestosis. Computed tomography in comparison with conventional roentgen diagnosis]

Thirty patients (27 men and 3 women) with an average industrial asbestos exposure of 19 years have been examined. The results of conventional radiography and CT have been analysed and compared with pulmonary function studies. The advantages of CT depend on a better demonstration of the pleura and lung periphery. In 24% of cases plaques were diagnosed by chest x-rays which could, however, be excluded by computed tomography. Correct prediction of restricted ventilation was possible in 84% patients by means of CT. On the other hand, this prediction by means of conventional radiographs could be made reliably only if there was extensive fibrosis.