Assessment of Pulmonary EmphySema: the Clinical -ULtrasonographic APproach to chronIc Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the relationship between lung ultrasound (LUS) patterns and chest computed tomography (CT) findings in patients with panlobular or paraseptal emphysema. The study aims to better understand the acoustic signals from ultrasound evaluations and how they relate to lung tissue changes seen on CT scans. It involves COPD patients, individuals in lung cancer screening programs, and patients with suspected or known lung cancer, all showing emphysema on CT. Participants will undergo LUS evaluations using both clinical and research ultrasound scanners while lying on their backs with arms raised above their heads, the same position used during chest CT scans. The study compares ultrasound images with CT results using automated image analysis. In addition, COPD patients and those in lung cancer screening with emphysema will have respiratory oscillometry testing to assess lung function during normal breathing. During the study, participants will have lung ultrasounds, chest CT scans, and oscillometry tests if applicable. Researchers will evaluate the number of participants showing emphysema patterns on ultrasound over about two years. The study does not change any medical treatments and only observes patients at the time of enrollment. The involvement includes imaging assessments and lung function measurements to better understand emphysema detection methods.

Clinical-ultrasonographic Assessment of Pulmonary Emphysema