Evidence of early lung involvement in CF

Abstract

Brody and colleagues studied chest high-resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with mild to moderate chest disease and relatively normal pulmonary function tests. The investigators identified a high incidence of regional bronchiectasis, air trapping, and mucous plugging in otherwise normal appearing lungs (Figure). These findings demonstrate that HRCT is a sensitive tool that will be valuable in understanding the natural history of this disease. In the accompanying editorial, McColley points out how these findings can be used in clinical trials that seek to alter the course of lung disease in its earliest stages.Page 6 (editorial)Page 32 (article) Brody and colleagues studied chest high-resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with mild to moderate chest disease and relatively normal pulmonary function tests. The investigators identified a high incidence of regional bronchiectasis, air trapping, and mucous plugging in otherwise normal appearing lungs (Figure). These findings demonstrate that HRCT is a sensitive tool that will be valuable in understanding the natural history of this disease. In the accompanying editorial, McColley points out how these findings can be used in clinical trials that seek to alter the course of lung disease in its earliest stages. Page 6 (editorial) Page 32 (article)