Pulmonary Apical Cap-What's Old Is New Again

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Pathology
• Thoracic Imaging
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• The pulmonary apical cap (PAC) is a distinct fibroelastotic scar affecting lung apices.
• Despite its prevalence, PAC is underrecognized by clinicians, radiologists, and pathologists.
• Modern imaging increases the likelihood of PAC biopsy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the pulmonary apical cap (PAC).
• To serve as a diagnostic aid for surgical pathologists encountering PAC.
• To enhance recognition of PAC as a unique pathological entity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on pulmonary apical cap (PAC).
• Analysis of morphological features of PAC.
• Discussion of differential diagnoses for PAC.

Main Results:

• PAC presents as a unilateral or bilateral fibroelastotic scar.
• Familiarity with PAC's appearance is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
• Differential diagnosis includes various lung pathologies.

Conclusions:

• Pathologists require awareness of PAC's unique presentation.
• Accurate diagnosis of PAC is essential given increasing biopsy rates.
• Improved understanding of PAC can prevent misdiagnosis and guide treatment.