Differential Diagnosis of Diffuse Cystic Lung Disease at HRCT - An Overview

Abstract

Introduction: The diffuse cystic lung diseases (DCLDs) are a diverse group of lung disorders characterized by the presence of multiple regular or irregular spherical parenchymal lucencies bordered by a thin wall and having a well-defined interface with normal lung. Other lucent lung lesions like centrilobular emphysema, cavity, cystic bronchiectasis, honeycomb cyst, and pneumatoceles are close mimics of a lung cyst on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) HRCT is an important modality in the evaluation of interstitial lung disease to include cystic lung disease. This review describes a simple algorithmic approach for DCLDs on HRCT based on cyst’s distribution, size, and shape, as well as background parenchymal changes and it helps also in differentiation of common and uncommon diffuse cystic lung disease. Aim: The aim of the study is to present, describe and make differential diagnosis of this spectrum of diseases associated with air cysts at high-resolution CT. Conclusion: Diffuse cystic lung diseases are a group of complex disorders that often have an overlapping clinical presentation, but different underlying pathological processes. HRCT still remains the imaging of choice for the diagnosis of common diffuse cystic lung diseases.