High-resolution computed tomography sampling for detection of asbestos-related lung disease.

Rationale And Objectives: We determined whether a limited number of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans will effectively screen for interstitial lung disease (ILD) in a population of individuals exposed to asbestos.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the computed tomography studies of 49 patients exposed to asbestos. HRCT in the supine and prone positions had been performed at specifically preselected levels. Two teams of thoracic radiologists evaluated, on separate occasions: (1) all images, (2) prone images only, and (3) a single prone image through the lung bases for the presence of diffuse ILD.

Results: A relatively high level of accuracy was obtained with a single prone scan. However, improvement to 95% or better was found when additional prone images were used.

Conclusion: A screening study for ILD, in this case patients exposed to asbestos, may be performed by preselected prone HRCT images only. The ease and decreased time of performing the procedure make screening relatively large patient groups for ILD more feasible.