High-resolution CT evaluation in five cases of pulmonary sarcoidosis with diffuse small nodules

To evaluate high-resolution CT of pulmonary sarcoidosis with diffuse small nodular opacities, we observed the relation between small nodular opacities and bronchovascular bundles. Five patients (3 males and 2 females, ranging in age from 34 to 57 years) with pulmonary sarcoidosis in whom diagnosis was confirmed by means of trans-bronchial lung biopsy were investigated. Small nodular opacities were observed on bronchovascular bundles in all 5 patients and were seen mostly in peripheral upper lobes. The nodular opacities were distributed diffusely, but some times were located in one part. High-resolution CT of pulmonary sarcoidosis showed nodular opacities on bronchovascular bundles. It may be worthwhile to evaluate high-resolution CT carefully for the location of small nodular opacities. (author)