Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: spectrum of high-resolution CT findings

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2005 Dec;185(6):1531-9. doi: 10.2214/AJR.04.1599.

Abstract

Objective: Characteristic high-resolution CT (HRCT) findings of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) include reticulation, architectural distortion, and honeycombing involving mainly the lung periphery and the lower lobes. In 50% of IPF patients, HRCT is nonspecific. This article illustrates the HRCT findings of IPF correlating with the pathology.

Conclusion: The spectrum of HRCT manifestations varies from typical findings that allow confident diagnosis to atypical patterns mimicking other diseases, including predominance of ground-glass opacity, consolidation, nodules, and atypical distribution of lesions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Pulmonary Fibrosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pulmonary Fibrosis / pathology
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*