Keywords:
CT, Thorax, Decision analysis, Cancer, Outcomes
Authors:
D. Dressler1, D. J. Borgaonkar2, K. Greenlaw1, D. Manos3; 1Halfiax/CA, 2Halifax/CA, 3Halifax, NS/CA
DOI:
10.26044/esti2019/P-0095
Conclusion
With the widespread use of MDCT the number of detected lung nodules,
particularly tiny nodules,
has significantly increased.
In fact,
about half of heavy smokers or former heavy smokers have non-calcified pulmonary nodules (4).
The majority of these nodules are benign with a risk of lung cancer of less than 1% (2,
4,
10,
13).
However,
occasionally a tiny nodule can prove to represent malignancy.
The management strategy of these nodules is evolving based on knowledge from screening studies and a better understanding of the natural history of lung adenocarcinoma.
Because of limited accuracy of available techniques for establishing growth and evaluating margins in nodules under 6 mm in size,
patient risk is more important than nodule features in predicting malignancy.
Specific reporting terminology and accurate communication of risk is therefore essential.