Ground

Ground glass opacity is a term used in radiology to describe a feature seen in certain CT scans of the lung. The term is derived from the characteristic appearance of an area of increased attenuation that does not obscure the underlying bronchial structures or pulmonary vessels, giving the appearance of ground glass.

Causes

Ground glass opacity can be caused by various diseases, including:

• Infectious diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and fungal infections
• Inflammatory diseases such as sarcoidosis and interstitial lung disease
• Neoplastic diseases such as adenocarcinoma of the lung
• Pulmonary edema
• Pulmonary hemorrhage
• Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis
• Pulmonary fibrosis

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of ground glass opacity is made by a radiologist based on the appearance of a CT scan of the lung. The radiologist will look for areas of increased attenuation that do not obscure the underlying bronchial structures or pulmonary vessels.

Treatment

The treatment of ground glass opacity depends on the underlying cause. For example, if the cause is an infection, then antibiotics or antifungal medications may be used. If the cause is a neoplastic disease, then chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery may be required.

See also

• Radiology
• Computed tomography
• Lung disease

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