Beyond lung nodules: incidental CT findings and related risk factors in lung cancer screening of general populations

CT scans used for lung cancer screening can reveal more than lung nodules. They can also show changes in the lungs, airways and blood vessels of the heart, even in people without symptoms. Zhenhui Nie investigated these additional findings and their associated risk factors using data from general populations in China and the Netherlands.

Her research showed that emphysema, widening of the airways and thickening of airway walls were common and sometimes occurred together. These abnormalities were associated with factors such as age and smoking. More extensive airway abnormalities were associated with wheezing, although structural changes did not always correspond to respiratory symptoms.

Dissertation: https://hdl.handle.net/11370/049c0f60-6975-4177-b333-aa92999b62d9