Radiological abnormalities associated with Aspergillus colonization in a cystic fibrosis population

Abstract Objective To determine if sputum colonization with Aspergillus species in patients with cystic fibrosis (PWCF) correlates with radiological abnormalities and/or a reduction in pulmonary function (FEV1). Methods We prospectively evaluated 32 PWCF utilizing high resolution computed tomography...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:European journal of radiology 2012-03, Vol.81 (3), p.e197-e202
Main Authors: McMahon, Michelle A, Chotirmall, Sanjay Haresh, McCullagh, Brian, Branagan, Peter, McElvaney, N.G, Logan, P.M
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adolescent
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Aspergillosis - diagnostic imaging
Aspergillosis - physiopathology
Aspergillus
Bronchiectasis - diagnostic imaging
Bronchiectasis - microbiology
Bronchiectasis - physiopathology
Child
Computed tomography of the chest
Cystic fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis - diagnostic imaging
Cystic Fibrosis - physiopathology
Humans
Prospective Studies
Pulmonary function tests
Radiology
Respiratory Function Tests
Severity of Illness Index
Sputum - microbiology
Statistics, Nonparametric
Tomography, X-Ray Computed - methods
Young Adult
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Summary:Abstract Objective To determine if sputum colonization with Aspergillus species in patients with cystic fibrosis (PWCF) correlates with radiological abnormalities and/or a reduction in pulmonary function (FEV1). Methods We prospectively evaluated 32 PWCF utilizing high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the thorax and pulmonary function testing (PFT). The cohort was assessed as two groups: Aspergillus positive ( n = 16) and Aspergillus negative ( n = 16) based on sputum culture for Aspergillus species. A modified Bhalla scoring system was applied to each HRCT scan by two blinded radiologists. Results Aspergillus positive patients had more severe and significant bronchiectasis compared to those Aspergillus negative ( p < 0.05). This was most marked in the right upper and lower lobes (RUL, RLL). Total Bhalla score was clinically significant in both groups and approached statistical significance between groups ( p = 0.063). No difference in pulmonary function between the groups was detected. Conclusion PWCF colonized by Aspergillus species have greater radiological abnormalities undetectable by PFTs. Early radiological evaluation of Aspergillus colonized PWCF is therefore warranted.
ISSN:0720-048X
1872-7727
DOI:10.1016/j.ejrad.2011.01.114