A lung nodule 8 mm in diameter is detected incidentally on CT in a 62-year-old ex-smoker. According to Lung-RADS 2022, the nodule is solid with well-defined margins. The correct Lung-RADS category and recommended follow-up is:
- A Lung-RADS 3 — 6-month CT ✓
- B Lung-RADS 2 — annual screening CT
- C Lung-RADS 4A — 3-month CT or PET-CT
- D Lung-RADS 4B — tissue sampling
Correct answer: A. Lung-RADS 3 — 6-month CT
Explanation
Per Lung-RADS 2022, a solid nodule 6–7.9 mm is Lung-RADS 3 (probably benign), and 8–14.9 mm is Lung-RADS 4A (suspicious). Since this nodule is 8 mm, it falls in Lung-RADS 4A, not 3. Lung-RADS 4A warrants 3-month CT or PET-CT to assess growth or metabolic activity. Lung-RADS 4B (≥15 mm or new/growing nodule) requires tissue sampling. Lung-RADS 2 covers solid nodules <6 mm.
Reference: Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology, 7th ed.
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