Comparative Study of X-ray and High Resolution Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Interstitial Lung Disease

Introduction: Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are defined as a heterogeneous group of disorders that primarily affect the interstitium, a tissue of the alveolar wall between the capillary and the alveolar epithelium. These disorders can progress to irreversible pulmonary fibrosis and are important cause of morbidity and mortality. It is therefore imperative that a prompt and accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause is made so that appropriate management can be instituted. Material and methods: This was a cross sectional study. Total 60 Patients, who referred from OPD of medicine and pulmonary medicine to the department of radio diagnosis, for diagnosis and evaluation of interstitial lung disease were included in the study and were subjected to chest radiograph followed by HRCT. Study duration was one and half years from Jan 2018 to June 2019. The results were tabulated, statistically analysed and compared with previous studies. Result:The main result of the study was that HRCT was able to detect more abnormalities than conventional chest radiograp in the diagnosis of interstitial lung diseases. The differences between the two modalities were found to be statistically significant in certain findings. Conclusion: Chest radiograph remain the basic and primary radiological tool for the diagnosis. HRCT is the best imaging modality and is an indispensable and crucial radiological tool in the diagnosis of ILD. As our understanding of these disorders advances and new therapeutic agents aimed at specific molecular targets are developed, it becomes increasingly important to achieve a specific diagnosis to facilitate the optimal management for patients with ILDs.