Annals of the American Thoracic Society
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Chest computed tomography predicts the frequency of pulmonary exacerbations in children with cystic fibrosis.
Abnormalities on chest computed tomography (CT) in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) have been shown to correlate with short-term measures of lung disease. Chest CT scores offer promise as a potential surrogate end point in CF; however, there is limited information available on the ability of chest CT scores to predict future morbidity. ⋯ There is a significant association between Brody CT scores and the rate of pulmonary exacerbations up to 10 years later. This association is stronger than for FEV1 obtained at the time of the CT, suggesting that chest CT scores offer improved ability to predict future outcomes.
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Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is an established technique for the diagnosis of thoracic malignancies. Non-ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle injection has been used previously to deliver chemotherapeutic agents. ⋯ This is the first description of EBUS-TBNI to treat local recurrence of lung cancer and one of the first reports of the use of EBUS for intratumoral therapy. Additional research is warranted to determine the clinical usefulness and safety of this therapeutic approach.
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Editorial Comment
The importance of rigorous evaluation of quality measurement programs.