Context
-
High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) is a type of computed tomography (CT) with specific techniques to enhance image resolution. It is used in the diagnosis of various health problems, though most commonly for lung disease, by assessing the lung parenchyma.
About High Resolution Computed Tomography
-
High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT is performed using a conventional CT scanner. However, imaging parameters are chosen so as to maximize spatial resolution.
- The technique of HRCT was developed with relatively slow CT scanners, which didn’t make use of multi-detector technology.
- High Resolution Computed Tomography is used for diagnosis and assessment of interstitial lung disease such as pulmonary fibrosis, and other generalized lung diseases such as emphysema and bronchiectasis. These are the airways diseases.
- Airways diseases, such as emphysema or bronchiolitis obliterans, cause air trapping on expiration, even though they may cause only minor changes to lung structure in their early stages. To enhance sensitivity for these conditions, the scan may be performed in both inspiration and expiration.
- HRCT is used for diagnosis and assessment of interstitial lung disease, such as pulmonary fibrosis, and other generalized lung diseases such as emphysema and bronchiectasis.
- Where HRCT is unable to reach a definitive diagnosis, it helps locate an abnormality, and so helps planning a biopsy, which may provide the final diagnosis.
Science and Technology Current Affairs : Click Here