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Cystic fibrosis

Case contributed by Mohammad Ashkan Moslehi
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

10 years old boy with a known chronic condition.

Patient Data

Age: 10
Gender: Male
x-ray

The lungs are hyperaerated.

Bilateral reticulonodular infiltration is seen, along with cystic lesions, suggesting bronchiectasis (more prominent in upper zones). Consolidation is seen in left lower lobe.

Case Discussion

The patient died due to severe respiratory failure

Chest x-rays are insensitive to the early changes of cystic fibrosis, with changes seen on HRCT in 65% of patients with CF and normal CXR1.  Later changes on x-rays include:

  • bronchiectasis;
  • hyperinflation;
  • lobar collapse;
  • pulmonary arterial enlargement due to pulmonary arterial hypertension is seen in patients with long standing disease;

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