The HRCT Signs Of The Connective Tissue Diseases With Lung Involvement

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess the high-resolution CT (HRCT) findings and clinical significancy of the connective tissue diseases with lung involvement. Material and Method: We studied 34 patients with the connective tissue diseases who was diagnosed by clinical criterion,including 11 case of systemic lupus erythematosus,13 case of rheumatoid arthritis,7 case of sj?gren syndrome,3 case of polymyositis/dermatomyositis,and at the same time,other acute or chronic lung diffuse diseases and allergoses were excluded.All patients underwent HRCT scans in their first one week in hospital.Scans were obtained with 2mm-thick section at 10mm intervals and extended from the lung apices to the costophrenic angles at suspended end-inspiration in the supine position,Scans were performed at 140kV and 206mA.The CT signs and distribution were evaluated and correlated with clinical feature. Results: The chest's HRCT was abnormal in 67.7% (23/34) of patients,The major findings were subpleural linear opacity in 7 patients,reticulation in 7 patients,interlobular septal thickening in 5 patients,honeycombing with traction bronchiectasis in 4 patients,ground-glass opacity in 4 patients, mosaic perfusion 4 patients,bronchovascular bundle thickening in 4 patients,pleular thickening in 5 patients.consolidation,nodule and lymph node enlargement were less common findings. Conclusion: The HRCT scans may be detected clearly pathologic types and prognosis of pulmonary Interstitial disease,parenchymal diseases and pleural disease associated with Connective tissue diseases.