Computed Tomography Findings in Progressive Massive Fibrosis: Analyses of 90 Cases

PURPOSE: Radiological identification of lung masses in patients with pneumoconiosis is difficult. The aim of the study is to characterize Computed Tomography (CT) findings of Progressive Massive Fibrosis (PMF). METHODS: The data of pneumoconiosis patients, who were diagnosed with PMF between 2014-2019 in a tertiary hospital, were collected. Demographic data, work-related data, Pulmonary Function Test results and radiological imaging results were gathered. Separate evaluations were made for the right and left lungs, and the CT findings and measurement results were recorded. RESULTS: In 90% of our cases, PMF lesions were bilaterally located. Eighty-eight point five percent of the unilateral lesions were located in the upper lobe of the right lung. Enlarged lymph nodes were found in 83.3% and calcification was found in the lymph nodes in 63% of the cases. Band structures extending between the PMF lesion and the adjacent pleura were observed in 86% of the cases, and invagination in the lung parenchyma adjacent to the PMF was observed in 80% of the cases. CONCLUSION: In general, our findings were consistent with the radiologically defined PMF. In addition, pleural findings, which are not frequently studied in the literature except for asbestosis, were also described in the study.