In all the 105 patients, chest X-rays (CXRs) were taken and repeated; 84 patients underwent chest spiral computed tomography (CT) examinations and repeated in most of them. CT scans were performed with different scanner types, but with similar CT protocols. The CT scanners included a Somatom Plus 4 CT Scanner (Siemens, Erlangen, Germany), a GE Lightspeed Scanner (GE Medical Systems, Milwaukee, USA). Chest CT scans of the entire lungs were obtained while the patients were in a supine position at the end of inspiration. The scanning parameters included 120 kV, 150–350 mAs, 5 mm collimation, and a pitch of 1 or 1.5. All scans were viewed at standard lung window settings (level − 700 HU, width 1500 HU).
The CXR and chest CT images were retrospectively reviewed by two independent diagnostic radiologists who were experienced in the interpretation of thoracic radiological images. They reached a consensus decision regarding the findings. We used a standard glossary of radiological images definitions to describe the pulmonary lesions.[10 (link)]
The CXR and chest CT images were retrospectively reviewed by two independent diagnostic radiologists who were experienced in the interpretation of thoracic radiological images. They reached a consensus decision regarding the findings. We used a standard glossary of radiological images definitions to describe the pulmonary lesions.[10 (link)]