Ultra-Small Lung Cysts Impair Diffusion Without Obstructing Air Flow in Lymphangioleiomyomatosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare lung disease found primarily in women of childbearing age, characterized by the formation of air-filled cysts, which may be associated with reductions in lung function. An experimental, regional ultra-high resolution CT scan identified an additional volume of cysts relative to standard chest CT imaging, which consisted primarily of ultra-small cysts.

Research question

What is the impact of these ultra-small cysts on the pulmonary function of patients with LAM?

Study design and methods

A group of 103 patients with LAM received pulmonary function tests and a CT examination in the same visit. Cyst score, the percentage lung volume occupied by cysts, was measured by using commercial software approved by the US Food and D

SUBMITTER: Matthew BP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8295912 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature