J Korean Soc Radiol.  2015 Dec;73(6):357-366. 10.3348/jksr.2015.73.6.357.

Ground-Glass Nodule on Thin-Section CT: Differentiation among Adenocarcinoma In Situ, Minimally Invasive Adenocarcinoma and Lepidic Predominant Invasive Adenocarcinoma

• Lee MH
• Ryu DS
• Kim DY
• Ahn JH
• Choi SJ
• Gang GH
• Yoo DG
• Shin DR

• KMID: 2130940
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3348/jksr.2015.73.6.357

Abstract

PURPOSE
To investigate different computed tomography (CT) features among adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS), minimally invasive adenocarcinoma (MIA), and lepidic predominant invasive adenocarcinoma (LPA) that appeared as ground-glass nodules (GGN). We also analyzed different CT findings between Group A (AIS and MIA) and Group B (LPA).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We evaluated 19 AIS, 4 MIA, and 9 LPA images that were histologically confirmed and manifested as GGN on thin-section CT scans. CT scans were assessed for lesion characteristics: size, shape, solid portion, internal air density, marginal irregularity and pleural tag. CT findings of Group A and Group B were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test or Fisher's exact test.
RESULTS
A significant statistical difference was seen between AIS and LPA for lesion characteristics (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between AIS and MIA. Round or polygonal shape with smooth margin was significantly associated with Group A, and complex shape with marginal irregularity was associated with Group B.
CONCLUSION
Group A (AIS and MIA) could be distinguished from Group B (LPA) by smaller lesion size, round or polygonal shape, smaller solid portion and smooth margin.

MeSH Terms

Adenocarcinoma*
Lung Neoplasms
Tomography, X-Ray Computed