ALPHA(1)-ANTITRYPSIN DEFICIENCY - EVALUATION OF BRONCHIECTASIS WITH CT

PURPOSE: To assess bronchiectasis depicted with computed tomography (C T) in patients with alpha(1)-antitrypsin deficiency and to examine ass ociated clinical correlates. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CT scans in 14 pat ients with alpha(1)-antitrypsin deficiency were evaluated by two thora cic radiologists for the presence and extent of bronchiectasis and emp hysema. The findings were correlated with numeric infection scores on the basis of symptoms of sputum production and respiratory infection a nd with a history of conditions that may predispose to development of bronchiectasis. RESULTS: Six (43%) of 14 patients had CT evidence of b ronchiectasis. Patients with bronchiectasis had significantly higher i nfection scores than did patients without bronchiectasis (P < 005). Tw o patients had diffuse cystic bronchiectasis, and neither reported a h istory of illness that may have predisposed them to this condition. CO NCLUSION: Bronchiectasis may be more common in patients with alpha(1)- antitrypsin deficiency than has been previously recognized. The diagno sis of alpha(1)-antitrypsin deficiency should be considered in patient s with emphysema and diffuse cystic bronchiectasis.