Relation Between Atherosclerotic Calcifications Detected in Chest Computed Tomography and Lung Function

Abstract

Background and objectives A few recent epidemiological findings indicate a link between atherosclerosis and some lung functions. We studied further the relation between calcified chest atherosclerosis as seen in computed tomography (CT) and several lung functional parameters. Patients and methods Male construction workers originally screened for occupational lung cancer with CT had their chest atherosclerosis (aorta, the origins of its cervical branches, the coronary arteries and heart valves) visually classified. The relation between the atherosclerotic calcification scores and lung function (total lung capacity [TLC], forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV 1%], forced vital capacity [FVC%], maximal expiratory flow when 50% of FVC remains to be exhaled, total and specific diffusing capacities; all above expressed as percent of predicted value, and the FEV 1/FVC% ratio) were studied with the general linear model adjusted for smoking, exposure years for asbestos, and body mass index (n = 432). Results All lung functions except TLC showed significant negative associations with calcifications in aorta and in its branches. TLC showed such association only with atherosclerosis in the ascending aorta. Conclusions Aortic atherosclerosis seems to be related with poor lung function. This may be due to deteriorated bronchial circulation, but other mechanisms can also be involved. Lung function poorer than would be expected due to pulmonary reasons may indicate aortic atherosclerosis.