The Correlation of Radiological Changes with Pulmonary Function in Cystic Fibrosis

Abstract

To determine airway resistance and degree of obstruction in cystic fibrosis, the authors measured vital capacity, maximum midexpiratory flow rate, diffusing capacity, and hypoxemia. Dead space to tidal volume ratios were used as an index of imbalance between ventilation and perfusion. Chest films were assessed independently for air trapping, bronchial wall thickening, cyst formation, retained secretions within the cysts, and overall extent of disease. One hundred and ten scores were obtained in 69 patients, and an excel ent correlation was found between abnormality in pulmonary function studies and roentgeno ogically detected pulmonary disease.