Pattern of pulmonary function test abnormalities in anthracofibrosis of the lungs.

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to discuss the spirometric characteristics of anthracofibrosis which is a from of bronchial anthracosis associated with deformity.

METHODS

Forty anthracofibrosis subjects who were diagnosed with bronchoscopy were enrolled in this prospective study. Static and dynamic spirometry plus lung volumes and diffusion capacity were measured in this group and compared to a healthy control group.

RESULTS

Dyspnea (95%), cough (86%) and wheezing (68%) were the most frequent clinical findings. Spirometry showed significant decrease in all parameters including VC (FVC), FEV1, FEV1/FVC, FEF25-75 and FEF25-75 /FVC. The low value of FEV1/FVC and FEF25-75 and the increment of RV were in favor of obstructive patterns in 95% of subjects. Improving the obstruction with bronchodilator was not significant and diffusion capacity was mostly normal.

CONCLUSIONS

Anthracofibrosis should be added to the list of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.