Expert: Jane - 8/11/2005

Question
Hi Jane,
   I was diagnosed with emphysema a number of years ago my xray showed aveoli damage and yet when I went to see Dr. and had spirometre it said 93% lung capacity ,I have a very dry chest and I hardly ever catch the flu....could you possibly explain to me how this could be emphesema as the specialist said it could notbe at that capacity.
My grandson was born over 10 years ago and was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as both mum and dad both carried that gene...could my xray result be connected to the c.f.gene?i am 57 years old and I would appreciate your comments.

Answer
Hi Marj,

I don't have a great deal of knowledge about emphysema, although a lung capacity of 93% does seem unusual for someone with this diagnosis. In regards to CF there are milder versions of the disease e.g. there may be mild lung involvement with no problems with the pancreas. The oldest person to be diagnosed with CF was about 70 so it is not impossible. A genetic test can be done but it is not 100% conclusive as there are about 1000 possible gene mutations for CF, genetic testing does not screen for the all the rarer and milder gene mutations. In addition there are other lung diseases that can cause damage. Perhaps it might be an idea to see a specialist for a second opinion on your diagnosis.

Kind regards
Jane