European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Background: High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is more sensitive than plain chest radiograph in distinction of ILD (affectability more conspicuous than 90%) and the image illustration of parenchymal peculiarities on HRCT consistently propose a particular course of action of scientific abnormalities.
Aim: To assess the usefulness of HRCT chest and flexible optic bronchoscopy concerning Bronchoalveolar lavage cellular analysis in the diagnosis of interstitial lung disease. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at tertiary hospital in south India. 50 patients who are suspected to have interstitial lung infection by clinical assessment and history with manifestations and signs are assessed with HRCT chest and HRCT affirmed patients are exposed to fiber optic bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage is performed and their cytological profiles are investigated.
Results: The mean age of the patients was 50.18 years (SD ±14.3), with an age range from 18 to 70years and most of the study subjects were males. Dyspnoea was the most common presenting symptom (90% of patients), followed by cough (84%) and least is dysphagia (6%). In one young female, a cystic pattern was seen on HRCT with multiple diffuse thin-walled cysts which made us to make a diagnosis of LAM.
Conclusion:Thus, HRCT and BAL when combined, help us in making a confident diagnosis of ILD, obviating the need of a lung biopsy which is not feasible in routine practice due to lack of expertise, facilities and patient reluctance in undergoing a biopsy procedure.