Ground glass

Ground Glass is a term used in medical imaging to describe a certain appearance seen in computed tomography (CT) scans. The term is derived from the resemblance of the image to the frosted or etched appearance of ground glass.

Definition

The term "ground glass" is used to describe a feature of computed tomography (CT) scans where parts of the lung appear hazy, but without obscuring the underlying structures. This is in contrast to consolidation, where the lung architecture is completely obscured.

Causes

Ground glass opacities can be caused by a wide range of conditions, including:

• Infections, such as pneumonia
• Inflammatory conditions, such as sarcoidosis or pulmonary fibrosis
• Neoplastic conditions, such as adenocarcinoma of the lung
• Pulmonary edema, often due to heart failure
• Pulmonary hemorrhage

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of ground glass opacities is typically made by a radiologist reviewing a CT scan of the chest. The radiologist will look for areas of the lung that appear hazy, but where the underlying structures can still be seen.

Treatment

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

See also

• Computed tomography (CT)
• Radiology
• Pulmonary edema
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Sarcoidosis

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