Review

An update on the evaluation and management of small pulmonary nodules

Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Harper University Hospital, 3990 John R- 3 Hudson, Detroit, MI 48201, USA

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Jihane Zaza Dit Yafawi

Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Harper University Hospital, 3990 John R- 3 Hudson, Detroit, MI 48201, USA

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Ayman O Soubani

* Author for correspondence

Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Harper University Hospital, 3990 John R- 3 Hudson, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.

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Email the corresponding author at asoubani@med.wayne.edu

Published Online:29 May 2013https://doi.org/10.2217/fon.13.17

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Abstract

The widespread utilization of chest CT scans has increased the importance of the proper evaluation of incidentally found lung nodules. The primary goal in the evaluation of these nodules is to determine whether they are malignant or benign. Clinical factors such as older age, tobacco smoking, and current or remote history of malignancy increase the pretest likelihood of malignancy. Radiological features of these nodules are important in differentiating benign from malignant lesions. However, the etiology of the lung nodules frequently remains indeterminate and requires further evaluation. The approach to the management of indeterminate lung nodules ranges between observation with repeat chest CT scan, further diagnostic studies such as PET scan or invasive procedures to obtain tissue diagnosis. This article reviews the importance of the different radiological features of lung nodules. This is followed by an update on the approach to the management of the different types of small lung nodules.

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Papers of special note have been highlighted as: ▪ of interest

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Published online 29 May 2013

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The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

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