Development of micro-computed tomography (ìCT) for enhanced diagnosis and prognosis in interstitial lung diseases (ILD) (360G-Wellcome-109682_Z_15_Z)

This project addresses long-term debilitating lung diseases, in particular Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). The project builds on pioneering work carried out by the University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton. Nikon Metrology's microfocus CT technology (designed and built in Tring, UK) w;Jf be used to examine samples of human lung. Traditionally, very thin sections are sliced and examined under a microscope, looking for changes in the lung structure caused by disease. These sections provide only a very limited idea of how far disease has degraded the vitally important 3D structure of the lung. This pioneering work overcomes those limitations, producing a new and exciting diagnostic capability. The microfocus CT technology delivers digital scans with resolution that is hundreds of times more detailed than conventional medical CT. Results will be validated against lung samples of known diagnosis. Advanced digital analysis allows the airways, blood vessels and areas for gas-exchange to be separately identified in 3D. This technique will ultimately enable the NHS to deliver earlier and more accurate diagnosis, improving patient outcomes and accurately target medication and surgery.