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Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma: computed tomography findings
J P Trigaux1, P A Gevenois, L Goncette
1Dept of Radiology, Hôpital de Mont-Godinne, Yvoir, Belgium.
The European Respiratory Journal
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) scans reveal a diverse range of appearances for bronchioloalveolar lung carcinoma. Key CT findings often include peripheral nodules or consolidations, aiding in diagnosis and prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma is a subtype of lung cancer.
- Accurate diagnosis of lung cancer subtypes is crucial for treatment and prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the computed tomography (CT) appearance of bronchioloalveolar carcinoma.
- To determine the frequency of CT signs suggestive of this diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of CT features in 42 pathologically proven cases of bronchioloalveolar carcinoma.
- Evaluation of pattern, size, location, and secondary signs on CT scans.
Main Results:
- Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma presented as solitary nodules/masses (16), lobar consolidation (10), multilobar consolidations (13), or diffuse nodules (3).
- Solitary nodules/masses averaged 3.75 cm, with 11 peripheral and 5 central. Features included pleural tags (8), spiculated margins (7), and bubblelike lucencies (3).
- Consolidations (23 cases) were often peripheral (13), with cystic airspaces (19), bulging fissures (8), and the angiogram sign (7).
Conclusions:
- Computed tomography findings for bronchioloalveolar carcinoma exhibit a wide spectrum.
- CT typically shows peripheral nodules or consolidations, aiding in differentiating localized forms.
- CT plays a role in diagnosis, influencing therapeutic and prognostic decisions.