Factors affecting the radiologic appearance of peripheral bronchogenic carcinomas

The use of high-resolution computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have allowed the detailed description of morphologic findings associated with lung cancer. In particular, the desmoplastic response of lung tissue to tumor growth has not been adequately described. This article reviews roentgenologic and pathologic correlations of primary lung carcinomas. An irregular or indistinct tumor margin may be caused by tumor infiltration, an irregular desmoplastic response to the tumor growth, or irregular contraction in the central portion of the tumor. Solid tumor growth, on the other hand, may be associated with a well-defined tumor margin, with or without displacement of adjacent anatomical structures.