Role of high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the chest in the diagnosis of lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) – A serial study of 15 patients

摘要

Aim of work To highlight the characteristic high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings in 15 patients diagnosed with lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), narrowing the wide range of ILD and allowing accurate diagnosis preventing unnecessary interventional procedures. Patients and methods 15 female patients ranged in age from 17 to 55 years (mean age = 40.33 years). ILD was suspected based on clinical examination and chest radiographs. They were referred to do HRCT chest for further assessment. A 64 MSCT scanner was used. Results All patients showed bilateral multiple cysts showing upper lobar predominance in 13.3% of cases and lower lobar one in 6.7%. The size of the cysts ranged from few mms to 3 cm with variable wall thickness. Pneumothorax was reported in three patients and pulmonary hypertension in 15 cases. Conclusion HRCT is a valued diagnostic tool for diagnosis of LAM showing characteristic features for the disease.