Abstract
The solitary pulmonary nodule continues to be a common finding on radiographic studies.
In order to determine etiology, diagnostic evaluation begins with comparison with
old films in an attempt to demonstrate at least 2-year stability. If this cannot be
established, then additional studies including computed tomography or positron emission
tomography imaging are often performed to distinguish a benign lesion from a malignant
one. If a specific benign diagnosis cannot made, management options for radiographically
indeterminate nodules include percutaneous biopsy, surgical resection, or observation.
Treatment decisions are often complex and depend on a number of factors, including
radiographic appearance, presenting symptoms, clinical status, and past medical history.
Key Words:
solitary pulmonary nodule - lung cancer - granuloma
