Osteophyte induced lung fibrosis prevalence and osteophyte qualities predicting disease.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of osteophyte induced lung fibrosis (OIF) and its relationship to osteophyte size, location, and surrounding fat.

METHODS

94 CT scans of the chest were reviewed, size of the largest osteophyte and the presence of fibrosis were recorded.

RESULTS

Presence of fibrosis was higher among patient with large (>10 mm) osteophytes compared to those with small (1-10mm) osteophytes. Age and presence of periosteophyte fat were significantly associated with presence of fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

As the size of an osteophyte increases, there is a greater likelihood of lung fibrosis. Subpleural fat protects the lung from OIF.