Differential Diagnosis of Benign and Malignant Pulmonary Nodules Using High-resolution Computed Tomography

Original Article

Abstract

Objective: To differentiate between benign pulmonary nodules and malignant pulmonary nodules by using the key radiological imaging features on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) taking histopathology as Gold-standard.

Methodology: This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted by using 16 slices CT scanner in a radiology department of a tertiary care hospital, Allied Hospital II Faisalabad. A total of 70 patients were included, diagnosed with benign and malignant pulmonary nodule. HRCT scans of the chest were assessed for pulmonary nodule shape, size, location, density type (solid or sub-solid) and margins. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25, applying Chi-square and Fisher’s Exact Test (where applicable). A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Conclusion: This current study revealed that HRCT effectively differentiate between benign and pulmonary nodules and support timely clinical decision-making. From the HRCT findings, it can be seen that malignant pulmonary nodules mostly occur in the right upper lobe and have irregular shapes, spiculated margins, solid density, necrosis, ill-defined borders, and lack of calcifications.