Tuberculosis, Lung Infections, and Respiratory Care

Pulmonary Imaging and Radiology

Pulmonary imaging and radiology play a vital role in the diagnosis, management, and monitoring of respiratory diseases, providing detailed insights into lung anatomy and pathology. Over the years, advancements in imaging technologies have revolutionized the detection and evaluation of both infectious and non-infectious pulmonary conditions such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and lung cancer. Chest X-rays remain the most widely used initial imaging tool due to their accessibility and cost-effectiveness, allowing clinicians to identify abnormalities such as infiltrates, nodules, or pleural effusions. However, computed tomography (CT) has become the gold standard for detailed lung assessment, offering high-resolution images that reveal subtle structural changes and guide further clinical management.

Recent innovations have significantly enhanced pulmonary imaging capabilities. High-resolution CT (HRCT) enables early detection of interstitial lung diseases and subtle airway abnormalities, while low-dose CT (LDCT) has proven effective for lung cancer screening with minimal radiation exposure. Advanced imaging modalities such as positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provide functional and metabolic information that complements structural imaging, helping differentiate between active infection, inflammation, and malignancy. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into radiology has improved image interpretation, allowing for automated detection of patterns in diseases like tuberculosis and COVID-19, as well as assisting in large-scale screening programs.Pulmonary imaging also plays an essential role in patient follow-up, treatment evaluation, and interventional procedures.