Current opinion in pulmonary medicine
-
The challenge presented by a solitary pulmonary nodule has faced physicians and patients since the advent of the chest radiograph. Is the nodule malignant or benign? When should something be done about it and what should that be? The majority of solitary nodules are benign, but the detection of a nodule may be the first and only chance for cure in the patient with lung cancer. ⋯ Advances in radiographic techniques have improved the ability to noninvasively identify whether a nodule is likely malignant or benign. Application of these techniques may ease the decision making and reduce the incision making.