Multi-modality monitoring of cystic fibrosis lung disease: the role of chest computed tomography.

Cystic fibrosis [CF] lung disease is characterized by progressive bronchiectasis and small airways disease. To monitor CF lung disease traditionally spirometry has been the most important modality. In addition to spirometry chest radiography was used to monitor progression of structural lung abnormalities. However, the importance of chest radiography in disease management has been limited due to its poor sensitivity and specificity to detect disease progression. Over the last decade chest CT has become the gold standard for monitoring the severity and progression of bronchiectasis. Small airways disease can be monitored using spirometry, multiple breath washout techniques, and chest CT. In modern CF-care a multi-modality approach is needed to monitor CF lung disease and to personalize treatment for the needs of the patient. When state-of-the-art low dose bi-annual chest CT protocols are used radiation risk is considered to be low. In between chest CT imaging, physiologic measures are important to obtain for monitoring. Stratification of monitoring protocols based on the risk profile of the patient can help us in the future to better care for people with CF.