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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2024; 45(03): 316-328
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1782656
Review Article

Approach to Pulmonary Nodules in Connective Tissue Disease

Brian Gaffney
1   Department of Radiology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
,
David J. Murphy
1   Department of Radiology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
2   School of Medicine, University College, Dublin, Ireland
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Abstract

The assessment of pulmonary nodules is a common and often challenging clinical scenario. This evaluation becomes even more complex in patients with connective tissue diseases (CTDs), as a range of disease-related factors must also be taken into account. These diseases are characterized by immune-mediated chronic inflammation, leading to tissue damage, collagen deposition, and subsequent organ dysfunction. A thorough examination of nodule features in these patients is required, incorporating anatomic and functional information, along with patient demographics, clinical factors, and disease-specific knowledge. This integrated approach is vital for effective risk stratification and precise diagnosis. This review article addresses specific CTD-related factors that should be taken into account when evaluating pulmonary nodules in this patient group.

Keywords

nodule - rheumatoid - nodule; rheumatic - computed tomography - positron emission tomography


Publication History

Article published online:
28 March 2024

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