Multi-nodule Accumulation of Pulmonary Spherical Foci: A Comparison of CT Signs with Pathological Findings

Objective To explore the pathological basis of the CT signs of multi nodule accumulation of pulmonary spherical foci, and to evaluate these signs in clinical diagnosis. Materials and Methods CT signs of multi nodule accumulation of pulmonary spherical foci in 9 cases were compared with the pathological results. All foci were 3～6 cm in diameter. CT scan was performed on Elscient CT Twin unit or GE Prospeed unit, with an interval of 10 mm and the coverage from the apex to the base of lung, and intravenous injection of contrast media was adopted. Additional 3～5 mm thin slice scan was made according to the size of the focus. The pathological specimens were fixed using Heitzman method and cut transversely, in accord with CT scan, at 0.5～1.0 cm interval. The microscopic examination of the region of interest was performed, and the result was compared with CT sign.Results The multi nodule accumulation CT sign could be divided into two types: type A mulberry shape and type B pagoda shape. All cases were proved to be lung cancer except one case in type B.Conclusion The multi nodule accumulation CT sign is valuable for the diagnosis of malignant lung tumor.