A 40-year-old patient presents with recurrent respiratory infections. Chest X-ray shows a well-defined, round, calcified lesion in the right lower lobe with 'popcorn' pattern of calcification. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
- A Pulmonary chondrosarcoma
- B Carcinoid tumor
- C Pulmonary hamartoma ✓
- D Tuberculoma
Correct answer: C. Pulmonary hamartoma
Explanation
Pulmonary hamartoma is the most common benign lung tumor and classically appears as a well-defined peripheral nodule with 'popcorn' calcification on imaging. It is usually asymptomatic and found incidentally. Carcinoid tumors are endobronchial or perihilar and enhance vividly on contrast CT. Chondrosarcoma is extremely rare. Tuberculoma may calcify but typically shows a laminated or diffuse pattern, not popcorn calcification.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.