Emphysema quantification using low-dose computed tomography with deep learning-based kernel conversion comparison.

• Low-dose computed tomography with smooth kernel showed adequate performance in quantifying emphysema compared with standard-dose CT. • Emphysema quantification is affected by kernel selection and the application of a sharp kernel resulted in a significant overestimation of emphysema. • Deep learning-based kernel normalization of sharp kernel significantly reduced variation in emphysema quantification.