High resolution CT of the lungs in acute disseminated tuberculosis and a pediatric radiology perspective of the term "miliary".

High resolution CT (HRCT) of the lungs in six children with acute disseminated tuberculosis was evaluated. There was a wide variation in the HRCT appearances. This covered differences in size, distribution and concentration of nodular opacities. Coalescence of nodules and the presence of interstitial thickening was variable. The recognition of acute disseminated tuberculosis is important for diagnosis and has prognostic implications. The use of the term "acute disseminated tuberculosis" rather than "military tuberculosis" is advocated.