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Lung function, CT-scan and X-ray in upper airway obstruction due to thyroid goitre
C F Melissant1, S J Smith, R Perlberger
1Dept of Internal Medicine, Municipal Hospital Leyenburg, The Hague, The Netherlands.
The European Respiratory Journal
|October 1, 1994
Summary
This study found that routine lung function tests and computed tomography (CT) scans provide different information regarding upper airway obstruction caused by goiters. Neither method alone reliably assesses obstruction severity.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Upper airway obstruction can be caused by various conditions, including goiters.
- Assessing the severity of obstruction is crucial for clinical management.
- Lung function tests and radiological imaging are commonly used diagnostic tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical reliability of routine lung function tests (maximal flows, resistance) and radiological images (CT-scan, X-ray).
- To compare the information provided by these methods in patients with upper airway obstruction due to goiter.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 28 female patients with goiter and no pulmonary disorders.
- Lung function tests included maximal expiratory and inspiratory flow-volume curves and airway resistance.
- Radiological imaging involved CT-scans and X-rays performed during apnoea at functional residual capacity.
Main Results:
- Lung function tests showed significant correlations with each other.
- CT-scans evaluated tracheal cross-sectional area, while X-rays measured tracheal diameters.
- No significant correlation was found between lung function tests and radiological indices, except for airway resistance and CT-scan measurements.
Conclusions:
- Routine lung function tests and CT-scans yield non-comparable information on the degree of airway obstruction in goiter patients.
- Neither method alone can reliably assess the severity of obstruction.
- Further research may be needed to establish optimal diagnostic strategies.