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Intrapulmonary lymph nodes: thin-section CT features of 19 nodules
Yasuji Oshiro1, Masahiko Kusumoto, Noriyuki Moriyama
1Department of Radiology, University of Ryukyu School fo Medicine, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Oshiro4211@aol.com
Journal of Computer Assisted Tomography
|September 10, 2002
Summary
Intrapulmonary lymph nodes accompanying lung tumors appear as small, well-defined nodules on thin-section CT scans. These findings are crucial for differentiating them from other subpleural nodules, especially in patients with malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pulmonology
- Oncology
Background:
- Intrapulmonary lymph nodes can be incidentally found alongside primary or metastatic lung tumors.
- Accurate identification of these nodes on imaging is essential for correct diagnosis and treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the specific imaging features of intrapulmonary lymph nodes using thin-section computed tomography (CT).
- To differentiate intrapulmonary lymph nodes from other subpleural lung nodules.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of thin-section CT scans from 16 patients with pathologically confirmed intrapulmonary lymph nodes.
- Evaluation of nodule characteristics including size, shape, margins, homogeneity, and location relative to the pleura.
Main Results:
- Nineteen intrapulmonary lymph nodes were identified, predominantly solitary and located in the lower lung fields, abutting or near the visceral pleura.
- On thin-section CT, these nodules were typically well-circumscribed, homogeneous, round or ovoid, and less than 12 mm in diameter.
- The surrounding lung parenchyma appeared normal in all cases.
Conclusions:
- Intrapulmonary lymph nodes present as distinct subpleural nodules in the lower lung fields on thin-section CT.
- Key CT features include well-circumscribed, homogeneous, round/ovoid morphology, and size < 12 mm.
- Consider intrapulmonary lymph nodes in the differential diagnosis of subpleural nodules, even in patients with known malignancy.