Correct!
2. Cystic fibrosis
The linear and reticular abnormalities noted on the chest radiograph could be produced by any of the above disorders, but, among these choices, the basal predominant findings on the radiograph is atypical for cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis may produce linear abnormalities- reflecting bronchial wall thickening and bronchiectasis- but these abnormalities are typically upper lobe predominant, often preferentially affecting the right upper lobe. Furthermore, the lung volumes appear normal, and cystic fibrosis would be expected to produce an obstructive pattern, manifesting on the chest radiograph as increased lung volumes. The other lesions listed may present with normal or nearly-normal chest radiographic findings; when findings are evident, however, they are often most readily visible in the mid and lower lungs.
Additional laboratory data showed hypercholesterolemia with elevated low density lipoprotein-C and reduced levels of high density lipoprotein-C. Pulmonary function testing suggested the presence of restrictive ventilatory defect. The patient underwent thoracic CT (Figure 3) for further characterization of the chest radiographic and pulmonary function testing findings.
Figure 3. Representative thoracic CT images displayed in lung windows
Which of the following statements regarding this CT examination is most accurate? (Click on the correct answer to proceed to the next panel)