Pulmonary function and V/Q distribution in hyperthyroidism

Pulmonary functions of the hyperthyroidisms were evaluated before and after therapy. Kr-81m continuous inhalation and Tc-99m MAA (Macro Agguregated Albumin) perfusion study, spirography (VC, RV, FRC, TLC, CV), Diffusion capacity, and flow volume (V25, V50) study were done before and after therapy of 32 hyperthyroidisms. As a result VC% increased and RV% decreased significantly after the therapy, due to improvement of weakness of respiratory muscle. No significant changes were recognized on FRC, TLC, CV, DLco, V25, V50 after the therapy. Perfusion shifted to the upper lung fields in 21 (91 %) out of 23 hyperthyroidism patients. There was no significant change of ventilatory distribution after the therapy. V/Q ratio in upper lung fields therefore decreased in hyperthyroid state. After the therapy, perfusion in upper lung fields recovered to normal pattern, corresponding to normalization of T4 value. Shift of perfusion to upper lung fields was considered to be one of pathophysiological changes of hemodynamics in the hyperthyroidisms. (author)