Emphysematous lesion in elderly smokers

Objective: To study the occurrence of emphysematous lesion in symptom free smokers of about 50 to 60 years of age and non smokers.Methods: A randomized study was conducted in 31 smokers and 29 nonsmokers with high resolution computed tomography(HRCT).HRCT was performed at full inspiration with a 1.5 mm slice thickness and a 3 cm inter-slice distance.Evaluation was made by two radiologists and emphysematous lesions were scored visually.Results: Emphysematous lesions were demonstrated in 15 of the 31 smokers but in only one non smoker.Emphysematous lesions were evident in 48.4% of the healthy symptom free smokers.The difference was significant(P<0.005).Conclusions: HRCT may reveal early emphysematous lesion in smokers before they have any clinical symptoms.