Assessment of pattern of HRCT findings in active and inactive pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract

Background: TB is one of the top ten causes of death globally, as well as the leading cause of death from 
a single infectious agent. The present study was conducted to assess pattern of HRCT findings in active 
and inactive pulmonary tuberculosis. 
Materials & Methods: 60 patients suspected with tuberculosis, new patients and AFB positive (on 
sputum or endobronchial washings smear or culture) of both genders were included.  All were subjected 
to inspiratory HRCT scans done with Siemens CT scanner with 1.5 mm thickness sections at 5 mm 
intervals from lung apices to below the costophrenic angles using parameters 130 mAs, 130 kVp. All 
scans were performed in supine position.  
Results: Out of 60 patients, males were 35 and females were 25. Common symptoms were fever in 42, 
cough in 35, hemoptysis in 22, night sweats in 15 and weight loss in 12 cases. The difference was 
significant (P< 0.05). HRCT revealed cavity  
in 32 and 11, consolidation in 12 and 17, tree- in bud in 
25 and 11, ill defined nodules  
in 11 and 21, ground glass opacity in 8 and 30, atelectasis in 14 and 11, 
traction bronchiectasis in 12 and 23, peribronchial thickening in 11 and 45 and calcified granuloma in 42 
and 23 in active and inactive tuberculosis cases respectively. The difference was significant (P< 0.05).