Management of Incidental Lung Nodules

Abstract

The incidental pulmonary nodule is commonly encountered when interpreting chest CTs. The management of pulmonary nodules requires a multidisciplinary approach entailing integration of nodule size and features, clinical risk factors, and patient preference and comorbidities. Guidelines have been issued for the management of both solid and subsolid nodules, with the Fleischner Society issuing revised guidelines in 2017. This article focuses on the CT imaging characteristics and clinical behavior of pulmonary nodules, with review of the current management guidelines that reflect this knowledge.