1. To understand a new classification of infant ILD that reflects new knowledge with regards to pathogenesis.
2. To review the differences between ILD syndromes in children and adults and identify those unique to the pediatric age group.
3. To recognize the major radiographic patterns of ILD seen in children and discuss how HRCT can narrow the differential or make a specific diagnosis.
Children are evaluated for an interstitial lung disease (ILD) syndrome when presenting with chronic hypoxia and/ or tachypnea and a diffuse pattern of abnormality on imaging studies. Children with ILD represent a heterogeneous group of rare, mostly idiopathic, and in some cases unique disorders. Disorders specific to the pediatric population include the diffuse developmental and growth disorders, pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis, neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy, chronic pneumonitis of infancy, and the surfactant protein abnormalities. The spectrum of disorders differs as the child grows and develops. It has not proved practical to apply adult diagnostic categories. In the past, the radiologist played a minor role in the evaluation of pediatric ILD. Now, HRCT has become an important part of the diagnostic evaluation as more noninvasive techniques have developed and more specific radiographic patterns have been recognized.
Long, F,
Pediatric Interstitial Lung Disease Update. Radiological Society of North America 2007 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2007 ,Chicago IL.
http://archive.rsna.org/2007/5000648.html
