Radiological-pathological correlation in intratumoural tissue components of solid lung tumours

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Solid lung tumors require accurate characterization for diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Computed tomography (CT) is a key imaging modality for evaluating lung lesions.
• Distinguishing between benign and malignant lung tumors is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe intratumoural tissue components of solid lung tumors.
• To correlate macroscopic and microscopic findings with computed tomography (CT) imaging.
• To identify CT-visible components that aid in lesion characterization.

Main Methods:

• Macroscopic and microscopic examination of autopsy or surgical lung tumor specimens.
• Computed tomography (CT) imaging with and without contrast material administration.
• Comparative analysis of pathological findings and CT features.

Main Results:

• Seven intratumoural tissue components were identified: solid, haemorrhagic, coagulation necrosis, liquefaction necrosis, parenchymal consolidation, diffuse peripheral, and fibrotic.
• Haemorrhagic and necrotic components are characteristic of malignant lung lesions.
• Solid and fibrotic components can be present in both malignant and benign solid lung lesions.

Conclusions:

• CT imaging can visualize key intratumoural tissue components of solid lung tumors.
• The presence of specific components like necrosis and hemorrhage on CT suggests malignancy.
• CT-based identification of these components can assist in the differential diagnosis of lung tumors.