Transbronchial biopsy smear for diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary carcinomas

Optimal approach for diagnosing peripheral lung nodules by combining electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy and radial probe endobronchial ultrasound

INTRODUCTION

Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) and radial probe endobronchial ultrasound (RP-EBUS) are essential bronchoscopic procedures for diagnosing peripheral lung lesions. Despite their individual advantages, the optimal circumstances for their combination remain uncertain.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective study enrolled 473 patients with 529 pulmonary nodules who underwent ENB and/or RP-EBUS biopsies between December 2021 and December 2022. Diagnostic yield was calculated using strict, intermediate, and liberal definitions. In the strict definition, only malignant and specific benign lesions were deemed diagnostic at the time of the index procedure. The intermediate and liberal definitions included additional results from the follow-up period.

RESULTS

The diagnostic yield of the strict definition was not statistically different among the three groups (ENB/Combination/RP-EBUS 63.8%/64.2%/62.6%, p = 0.944). However, the diagnostic yield was superior in the ENB + RP-EBUS group for nodules with a bronchus type II or III and a solid part <20 mm (odds ratio 1.96, 95% confidence interval 1.09-3.53, p = 0.02). In terms of complications, bleeding was significantly higher in the ENB + RP-EBUS group (ENB/Combination/RP-EBUS 3.7% /6.2/0.6%, p = 0.002), but no major adverse event was observed.

CONCLUSION

The combination of ENB and RP-EBUS enhanced the diagnostic yield for nodules with bronchus type II or III and solid part <20 mm, despite a slightly elevated risk of bleeding. Careful patient selection based on nodule characteristics is important to benefit from this combined approach.

Radial endobronchial ultrasound - guided bronchoscopy for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective trials

Background

The diagnostic yield of radial endobronchial ultrasound (r-EBUS) for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) varies between studies and is affected by multiple factors. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of r-EBUS, and to explore the factors influencing the diagnostic yield of r-EBUS in patients with PPLs.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases were searched to identify relevant studies that used r-EBUS for diagnosing PPLs from the date of inception to Dec 2022. Meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.4 and Stata 15.1.

Results

An analysis of 46 studies with a total of 7252 PPLs was performed. The pooled diagnostic yield of r-EBUS was 73.4 % (95 % CI: 69.9%-76.7 %), with significant heterogeneity detected among studies (I2 = 90 %, P < 0.001). Further analysis demonstrated PPLs located in the middle or lower lobe, >2 cm in size, malignant in type, solid in appearance on computerized tomography (CT), present in bronchus sign, the within probe location, and the addition of rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) were associated with increased diagnostic yield, whereas use of a guide sheath (GS), bronchoscopy type, and a multimodality approach failed to influence the outcome. The pooled incidence rates of overall complications, pneumothorax and moderate and severe bleeding were 3.1 % (95 % CI: 2.1%-4.3 %), 0.4 % (95 % CI: 0.1%-0.7 %) and 1.1 % (95 % CI: 0.5%-2.0 %), respectively.

Conclusions

r-EBUS has an appreciable diagnostic yield and an excellent safety manifestation when used to deal with PPLs.

[Navigational bronchoscopy with tranbronchial cryobiopsy in differential diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tranbronchial cryobiopsy (TBCB) with 1.9-mm and 1.1-mm cryoprobes in patients with peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We analyzed 34 patients (mean age 60 years) with PPLs who underwent bronchoscopy with TBCB. Mean lesion size was 31.5 mm, upper lobe localization was predominant (47% of cases). CT signs of appropriate bronchus were identified in 79% (27/34) of cases. Manual branch tracking and virtual bronchoscopy (VB) were performed pre-procedurally, and radial endobronchial ultrasonography (rEBUS) was performed during bronchoscopy for accurate positioning of PPLs. TBCB was performed using 1.9-mm (n=19) or 1.1-mm (n=15) cryoprobes without fluoroscopic guidance. Incidence and severity of bleeding and pneumothorax were evaluated in all patients.

RESULTS

Total efficacy of TBCB was 76.5% (26/34): 78.9% (15/19) for 1.9-mm cryoprobe and 73.3% (11/15) for 1.1-mm cryoprobe (p=0.702). Efficacy depended on the presence of CT signs of bronchus (presence - 94%, absence 14.3%, p<0.001) and PPL size (94% for PPL >30 mm and 58.8% for PPL <30 mm, p=0.016). Central probe position during rEBUS was associated with 94.7% diagnostic efficacy (18/19), adjacent probe position - 72.7% (8/11) (p=0.088). Bleeding grade 3 (Nasville) occurred in 5.8% (2/34) of cases, and no pneumothorax was observed.

CONCLUSION

TBCB is an effective and safe diagnostic method for PPLs.

The effect of combining different sampling tools on the performance of electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy for the evaluation of peripheral lung lesions and factors associated with its diagnostic yield

BACKGROUND

We assessed the performance of Electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (ENB) as a standalone diagnostic technique and the performance of different sampling tools used during the procedure.

METHODS

We recruited 160 consecutive patients who underwent ENB for peripheral lung lesions (PLL) at a tertiary care centre. The diagnostic performance of ENB and sampling tools was assessed using a logistic regression model and a ROC-curve in which the dependent variable was diagnostic success. A multivariate model was built to predict diagnostic success before performing ENB to select the best candidates for the procedure.

RESULTS

Most patients with PLLs in the study were male (65%), with a mean age of 67.9 years. The yield was 66% when the most common techniques were used together as suction catheter + transbronchial biopsy forceps (TBBx) + bronchoalveolar lavage + bronchial washing (p < 0.001) and increased to 69% when transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) and cytology brush were added (p < 0.001). Adding diagnostic techniques such as TBBx and TBNA resulted in an increase in diagnostic performance, with a statistically significant trend (p = 0.002). The logistic model area-under the ROC-curve for diagnostic success during ENB was 0.83 (95% CI:0.75-0.90; p < 0.001), and a logit value ≥ 0.12 was associated with ≥ 50% probability of diagnostic success.

CONCLUSIONS

ENB, as a stand-alone diagnostic tool for the evaluation of PLLs when performed by experienced operators using a multi-modality technique, has a good diagnostic yield. The probability of having a diagnostic ENB could be assessed using the proposed model.

Computed Tomography Bronchus Sign Subclassification during Radial Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Biopsy: A Retrospective Analysis

The presence of computed tomography bronchus sign (CT-BS) substantially increases the diagnostic yield of peripheral pulmonary lesions. However, the clinical significance of subdividing CT-BS remains controversial. We classified bronchus types on CT into six subtypes (CT-BS group I: types Ia–Ic with the bronchus connected within the lesion, group II: types IIa–IIc without connection) to clarify the differences in their characteristics and investigate the factors associated with diagnosis during radial endobronchial ultrasound (rEBUS)-guided bronchoscopy. In total, 1021 cases were analyzed. Our findings in diagnostic yields were that in CT-BS group I, penetrating type Ic was inferior to obstructed type Ia and narrowing type Ib (59.0% vs. 80.0% and 76.3%, p < 0.001, p = 0.004); in CT-BS group II, compressed type IIa showed no difference when compared with invisible type IIb and uninvolved type IIc (IIa: 52.8% vs. IIb: 46.3% and IIc: 35.7%, p = 0.253). Multivariable analysis revealed that bronchus type (types Ia and Ib vs. Ic) was a significant independent predictor of successful diagnosis in CT-BS group I (odds ratio, 1.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–3.05; p = 0.035), along with known factors such as rEBUS visualization. CT-BS subclassification may provide useful information regarding the bronchoscopic technique to facilitate accurate diagnosis.

Inheritance and innovation of the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions

As the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, early detection and diagnosis are crucial to reduce the mortality of lung cancer. To date, the diagnosis of the peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) remains a major unmet clinical need. The urgency of diagnosing PPLs has driven a series of development of the advanced bronchoscopy-guided techniques in the past decades, such as radial probe-endobronchial ultrasonography (RP-EBUS), virtual bronchoscopy navigation (VBN), electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB), bronchoscopic transparenchymal nodule access (BTPNA), and robotic-assisted bronchoscopy. However, these techniques also have their own limitations. In this review, we would like to introduce the development of diagnostic techniques for PPLs, with a special focus on biopsy approaches and advanced guided bronchoscopy techniques by discussing their advantages, limitations, and future prospects.

Historical eye: from traditional to endobronchial ultrasound-guided needle aspiration and beyond

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In the history of bronchoscopy, the advent of flexible transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) before and, subsequently, of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA), have represented fundamental events, as they have significantly and definitively changed interventional pulmonology's role in diagnostic and therapeutic work-up of most of thoracic diseases.Purpose of this historical review is to retrace the main stages that have contributed to the development of these two techniques.

RECENT FINDINGS

TBNA allowed the bronchoscopists to overcome the barrier of the tracheobronchial wall and to obtain samples from hilar-mediastinal lesions. With this additional method, bronchoscopy has become an essential procedure for staging of lung cancer.The advent of echo-bronchoscopes, allowing to perform TBNA under direct ultrasound guidance in real time, further increased the diagnostic yield of this technique. Furthermore, the insertion of the echo-bronchoscope through the oesophagus allowed to extend the landscape of targets to sample, including also para-esophageal lesions, liver metastases, celiac nodes and left adrenal glands.EBUS-TBNA has shown its usefulness not only in the approach to mediastinal lesions, but also in other clinical conditions, such as lung nodules or masses adjacent to the tracheobronchial tree.

SUMMARY

Despite the obvious advantages of EBUS-TBNA, this technology is not yet available in many centres and countries worldwide. For this reason, TBNA remains a basic technique that must complete the technical background of bronchoscopists and it should not be forgotten.

Development and Validation of a Prediction Model for Positive Findings of Preoperative Flexible Bronchoscopy in Patients with Peripheral Lung Cancer

(1) Background: It has yet to be determined whether preoperative flexible bronchoscopy (FB) should be routinely performed in patients with peripheral lung cancer. The aim of this study was to construct a model to predict the probability of positive FB findings, which would help assess the necessity of preoperative FB. (2) Methods: A total of 380 consecutive patients with peripheral lung cancer who underwent preoperative FB were recruited for this study. A prediction model was developed through univariate and multivariate logistic regression, with predictors including gender, age, body mass index (BMI), smoking, history of chronic lung diseases, respiratory symptoms, lesion size, lesion type, lesion location in the bronchi, and lesion location in the lobe. The predictive performance of the model was evaluated by validation using 1000 iterations of bootstrap resampling. Model discrimination was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC), and calibration was assessed using the Brier score and calibration plots. (3) Results: The model suggested that male patients with respiratory symptoms, decreased BMI, solid lesions, and lesions located in lower-order bronchi were more likely to have positive FB findings. The AUC and Brier score of the model for internal validation were 0.784 and 0.162, respectively. The calibration curve for the probability of positive FB findings showed convincing concordance between the predicted and actual results. (4) Conclusions: Our prediction model estimated the pretest probability of positive FB findings in patients with peripheral lung cancers. Males and patients with lower BMI, the presence of respiratory symptoms, larger lesions, solid lesions, and lesions located in lower-order bronchi were associated with increased positive FB findings. The use of our model can be of assistance when making clinical decisions about preoperative FB.

Bronchoscopic diagnosis of peripheral lung lesions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Over the last decades, in addition to the traditional fluoroscopy, various and innovative guidance systems have been adopted in clinical practice for transbronchial approach to peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs). The aim of this article is to summarize the most recent data on available guidance systems and sampling tools, evaluating also advantages and limitations of each technique.

RECENT FINDINGS

Although several studies have been published over the last years, large randomized studies comparing the different techniques are scanty. Fluoroscopy is the traditional and still most widely utilized guidance system. New guidance systems (electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy, ultrasound miniprobe, cone beam computed tomography) seems to provide a better sensitivity, especially for small lesions not visualized by fluoroscopy. Among the sampling instruments, there is a good evidence that flexible transbronchial needle provides the better diagnostic yield and that sensitivity may increase if more than one sampling instrument is used.

SUMMARY

Even if great progress has been done since the first articles on the transbronchial approach to PPLs, better scientific evidence and more reliable randomized trials are needed to guide interventional pulmonologists in choosing the best technique according to different clinical scenarios and source availability.

Advances in Diagnostic Bronchoscopy

The increase in incidental discovery of pulmonary nodules has led to more urgent requirement of tissue diagnosis. The peripheral pulmonary nodules are especially challenging for clinicians. There are various modalities for diagnosis and tissue sampling of pulmonary lesions, but most of these modalities have their own limitations. This has led to the development of many advanced technical modalities, which have empowered pulmonologists to reach the periphery of the lung safely and effectively. These techniques include thin/ultrathin bronchoscopes, radial probe endobronchial ultrasound (RP-EBUS), and navigation bronchoscopy—including virtual navigation bronchoscopy (VNB) and electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB). Recently, newer technologies—including robotic-assisted bronchoscopy (RAB), cone-beam CT (CBCT), and augmented fluoroscopy (AF)—have been introduced to aid in the navigation to peripheral pulmonary nodules. Technological advances will also enable more precise tissue sampling of smaller peripheral lung nodules for local ablative and other therapies of peripheral lung cancers in the future. However, we still need to overcome the CT-to-body divergence, among other limitations. In this review, our aim is to summarize the recent advances in diagnostic bronchoscopy technology.

Lesion characteristics affecting yield of electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy

RATIONALE

Electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (ENB) is an important, minimally invasive diagnostic tool for malignant and benign peripheral lung lesions, offering lower complication risks than transthoracic needle aspirations. As a relatively new technology, the best sampling modality and lesion characteristics for ENB has yet to be determined. We evaluated the sensitivity and diagnostic yield of different sampling modalities (needle aspiration, brush biopsy, transbronchial forceps biopsies) and radiographical lesion characteristics by Tsuboi classification. We also evaluated the difference in yield and sensitivity with the addition of radial probe EBUS to augment ENB.

METHODS

We completed a retrospective chart review of all patients that had ENB performed at our institution since its implementation in 2011. We reviewed the lesion size, location, Tsuboi classification, cytology, pathology results and analyzed biopsy specimen tool types.

RESULTS

We included a total of 248 patients who had ENB performed between 2011 and 2018. Average age was 67 years and 50% female. A total of 270 lesions were targeted with a mean size of 24 ± 12 mm. Sensitivity for malignancy was 59.2% with a diagnostic yield of 72.3%. Sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy trended higher with combined sampling modalities (brush and transbronchial needle aspiration and forcep biopsy). Lesions with type I and type II Tsuboi classification of bronchus sign had higher sensitivity compared to type III classification (67.9% [n = 101 type I], 64.6% [n = 65 type II], 37.9% [n = 36 type III]), p = 0.01 and p = 0.04.

CONCLUSION

For navigation bronchoscopy, sensitivity is higher in bronchus sign lesions that end directly into lesion (Tsuboi type I) and travel through malignant lesions (Tsuboi type II) compared to tangentially circumventing the lesion (Tsuboi type III).

Application “Lung Nodule" Software With Lungrads On Early Detection And Follow Up The Pulmonary Nodules By Lung Low Dose CT Findings

Background: A pulmonary nodule is defined as a rounded or irregular opacity, well or poorly defined, measuring up to 3 cm in diameter. Early detection the malignancy of nodules has a significant role in decreasing the mortality, increasing the survival time and consider as early diagnosis lung cancer. Content: The main risk factors are those of current or former smokers, aged 55 to 74 years with a smoking history of at least 1 pack-day. Low dose CT: Screening individuals with high risk of lung cancer by low dose CT scans could reduce lung cancer mortality by 20 percent compared to chest X-ray. Radiation dose has to maximum reduced but respect the rule of ALARA (As Low as Resonably Archivable). ACR-LungRADS 2014: Classification of American College of Radiology, LungRADS, is a newly application but showed many advantages in comparison with others classification such as increasing positive predict value (PPV), no result of false negative and cost effectiveness. “Lung nodule” was applied as a smart phone application in order to have a quickly evaluation, especially the malignancy and management face on a pulmonary nodule.

Chest imaging using signs, symbols, and naturalistic images: a practical guide for radiologists and non-radiologists

Several imaging findings of thoracic diseases have been referred-on chest radiographs or CT scans-to signs, symbols, or naturalistic images. Most of these imaging findings include the air bronchogram sign, the air crescent sign, the arcade-like sign, the atoll sign, the cheerios sign, the crazy paving appearance, the comet-tail sign, the darkus bronchus sign, the doughnut sign, the pattern of eggshell calcifications, the feeding vessel sign, the finger-in-gloove sign, the galaxy sign, the ginkgo leaf sign, the Golden-S sign, the halo sign, the headcheese sign, the honeycombing appearance, the interface sign, the knuckle sign, the monod sign, the mosaic attenuation, the Oreo-cookie sign, the polo-mint sign, the presence of popcorn calcifications, the positive bronchus sign, the railway track appearance, the scimitar sign, the signet ring sign, the snowstorm sign, the sunburst sign, the tree-in-bud distribution, and the tram truck line appearance. These associations are very helpful for radiologists and non-radiologists and increase learning and assimilation of concepts.Therefore, the aim of this pictorial review is to highlight the main thoracic imaging findings that may be associated with signs, symbols, or naturalistic images: an "iconographic" glossary of terms used for thoracic imaging is reproduced-placing side by side radiological features and naturalistic figures, symbols, and schematic drawings.

Computed Tomography Bronchus Sign and the Diagnostic Yield of Guided Bronchoscopy for Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

RATIONALE

Indeterminate peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) often require tissue diagnosis. If nonsurgical biopsy techniques are considered, deciding between bronchoscopic transbronchial versus computed tomography-guided transthoracic biopsy can be difficult. The former has a low diagnostic yield with a low complication risk, whereas the latter has a better diagnostic yield but a higher complication rate. Investigators have looked at various lesion characteristics that can predict the diagnostic yield of guided bronchoscopic biopsies. Although consensus exists that larger size and proximity to the hilum increase the diagnostic yield, there is ongoing debate about the association between computed tomography bronchus sign (air-filled bronchus in close proximity of the lesion as seen on computed tomography imaging) and the diagnostic yield of guided bronchoscopic modalities.

OBJECTIVES

To perform a meta-analysis and systematic review, determining the association between computed tomography bronchus sign and the diagnostic yield of guided bronchoscopy for PPLs.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched in January 2018 for guided bronchoscopy studies that had assessed the impact of computed tomography bronchus sign on the diagnostic yield. The quality of included studies was assessed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool. Meta-analysis was performed using MedCalc (version 18). Odds ratios were used to compare yield of lesions with and without bronchus sign. Random effects model was used when significant heterogeneity was observed (I² > 40%).

RESULTS

For 2,199 lesions with computed tomography bronchus sign, the overall weighted diagnostic yield was 74.1% (95% confidence interval, 68.3-79.5%). For 971 lesions without computed tomography bronchus sign, the overall weighted diagnostic yield was 49.6% (95% confidence interval, 39.6-59.5%). The odds ratio for successfully diagnosing a lesion with computed tomography bronchus sign was 3.4 (95% confidence interval, 2.4-5.0). Possible sources of heterogeneity in the meta-analysis included differences in study designs, guidance modalities, and cancer prevalence. The odds ratio for successfully diagnosing a lesion with computed tomography bronchus sign was relatively lower for prospective studies.

CONCLUSIONS

PPLs with computed tomography bronchus sign are more likely to be diagnosed with guided bronchoscopy than the lesions without computed tomography bronchus sign. Clinicians should consider this, along with the lesion size and distance from the hilum, when contemplating guided bronchoscopy for PPLs.

A novel biosimulator based on ex vivo porcine lungs for training in peripheral tissue sampling using endobronchial ultrasonography with a guide sheath

Background

Although radial probe endobronchial ultrasonography (EBUS) with a guide sheath (GS; EBUS-GS) is widely used for sampling peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs), a standard training model for EBUS-GS remains to be developed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a novel pulmonary biosimulator for hands-on training in peripheral tissue sampling using EBUS-GS.

Methods

We established a novel biosimulator for EBUS-GS using porcine lungs. The simulator was equipped with multiple pseudo PPLs that were created using blue agar solution injected through GS inserted in a bronchoscope. A total of 12 voluntary trainees participated in a hands-on training course using the biosimulator. The size of samples acquired using biopsy forceps were compared between initial and post-training biopsies, and trainee satisfaction with the biosimulator and training program were evaluated using a questionnaire.

Results

Under the guidance of a trainer, all trainees successfully detected pseudo PPLs using radial probe EBUS before the initial biopsy, and 11 trainees acquired samples from the target lesions during the initial biopsy. Post-training biopsy samples were larger than the initial samples for eight trainees. The results of the questionnaire revealed that all trainees were satisfied with the biosimulator. Moreover, eight trainees who had previously participated in another hands-on EBUS-GS training program involving a synthetic phantom model showed greater satisfaction for the biosimulator.

Conclusions

A hands-on training program using the novel biosimulator assessed in this study could aid clinicians in improving their skills for EBUS-GS and acquiring larger peripheral tissue samples using biopsy forceps inserted through GS.

An interesting case of incidental solitary pulmonary nodule

Doubling time, clinical prediction models of malignancy and positive bronchus sign are useful in stepwise evaluation of SPN to avoid thoracotomy. GeneXpert can be used as initial diagnostic test for tuberculosis and detection of rifampicin resistance. 
http://ow.ly/N37030mB8Fi.

Diagnostic Yield of the Virtual Bronchoscopic Navigation System Guided Sampling of Peripheral Lung Lesions using Ultrathin Bronchoscope and Protected Bronchial Brush

OBJECTIVES

The use of an ultrathin bronchoscope (UB) to diagnose peripheral pulmonary lesions is described. A virtual bronchoscopic navigation system was used to direct the ultrathin scope to the nodule. One of the constraints of this technique was the inability to confirm the target lesion position during biopsy by using a conventional linear endobronchial ultrasound probe, since the probe does not fit into a 1.2 mm working channel of this bronchoscope. The aim of the study was to review our institutional experience with the use of a UB for sampling peripheral pulmonary lesions using the transbronchial brush guided by virtual bronchoscopy. We describe a technique wherein we attempt to brush all the visible bronchial sub-segments once the bronchoscope has reached close to the nodule.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 52 patients underwent the procedure between 2010 and 2017. A multiplanar computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest was obtained and subsequently uploaded to the Lung Point Virtual bronchoscopy navigation software. The UB was parked close to the lesion. All visible airway branches were then brushed using a protected bronchial brush. The data were retrospectively abstracted from the electronic medical records using standardized forms.

RESULTS

A total of 52 lesions (40 solid, 8 part-solid, 3 cavitary, and 1 ground-glass) were sampled using a transbronchial brush (median, 2; range, 1-8). Twenty-four lesions were under 2 cm in size. The overall success rates were 67.3%. The average diameter of nodules was 2.7±1.01 cm; 65% lesions were in the outer-third of the lungs. The cancer-specific sensitivity was 72.5%. The presence of bronchus sign; location of the lesion; and the characteristics, size, and stage of cancer did not have any impact on the diagnostic yield.

CONCLUSION

Virtual bronchoscopy-guided ultrathin bronchoscopy with bronchial brushing is safe and has a diagnostic yield comparable to other described techniques for evaluating peripheral pulmonary nodules.

A perplexing primary novel hilar lesion: Remember the pneumonic PPNHL!

A 60-year-old female presented with dyspnea, cough, and chest pain with a left hilar mass lesion. In our case, clinicoradiological correlation, bronchoscopy, and computed tomography-guided biopsy revealed the diagnosis of primary pulmonary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (PPNHL) on histopathology and immunohistochemistry. We discuss the approach to hilar masses. PPNHL is a rare malignant lymphoma most common being mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. Various therapeutic options are available. The chemotherapy regimen consisting of CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisolone) is preferred.

Factors Related to the Diagnostic Yield of Flexible Bronchoscopy without Guidance in Bronchoscopically Invisible Peripheral Lung Lesions

BACKGROUND

We aimed to analyze the factors predicting the diagnostic performance of flexible bronchoscopy without guidance in peripheral lung lesions that are endoscopically invisible.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study conducted in St. Paul's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, between January 2007 and March 2013. We included all patients who received bronchoscopy during this period. The analyzed variables were age, sex, the etiology of the lesion, lesion size, distance from the pleura, and presence of the bronchus sign. We used multiple logistic regression analysis to identify the significant independent factors associated with diagnostic yield.

RESULTS

We included 151 patients in this study. The overall diagnostic yield was 58.3%. The sensitivity was 43.2% for malignant disease and 78.1% for benign disease. The benign lung lesions (p<0.001), lesion size (p=0.015), presence of the exposed type of bronchus sign (p<0.001), and presence of cavitary lung lesions (p=0.005) were factors influencing the yield of flexible bronchoscopy by univariate analysis. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the exposed type of bronchus sign and benign lung lesions were independent predicting factors (odds ratio [OR]: 27.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 7.56-103.32; p<0.001 and OR, 4.91; 95% CI, 1.76-13.72; p=0.002).

CONCLUSION

The presence of the exposed type of bronchus sign and benign lung lesions are determining factors of the diagnostic yield in flexible bronchoscopy in evaluating peripheral lesions that are not endoscopically visible.

Diagnosis of Peripheral Lung Lesions via Conventional Flexible Bronchoscopy with Multiplanar CT Planning

Background. Conventional flexible bronchoscopy has limited sensitivity in the diagnosis of peripheral lung lesions and is dependent on lesion size. However, advancement of CT imaging offers multiplanar reconstruction facilitating enhanced preprocedure planning. This study aims to report efficacy and safety while considering the impact of patient selection and multiplanar CT planning. Method. Prospective case series of patients with peripheral lung lesions suspected of having lung cancer who underwent flexible bronchoscopy (forceps biopsy and lavage). Endobronchial lesions were excluded. Patients with negative results underwent CT-guided transthoracic needle aspiration, surgical biopsy, or clinical-radiological surveillance to establish the final diagnosis. Results. 226 patients were analysed. The diagnostic yield of bronchoscopy was 80.1% (181/226) with a sensitivity of 84.2% and specificity of 100%. In patients with a positive CT-Bronchus sign, the diagnostic yield was 82.4% compared to 72.8% with negative CT-Bronchus sign (p = 0.116). Diagnostic yield was 84.9% in lesions > 20 mm and 63.0% in lesions ≤ 20 mm (p = 0.001). Six (2.7%) patients had transient hypoxia and 2 (0.9%) had pneumothorax. There were no serious adverse events. Conclusion. Flexible bronchoscopy with appropriate patient selection and preprocedure planning is more efficacious in obtaining a diagnosis in peripheral lung lesions compared to historical data. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01374542.

Using air bronchograms on multi-detector CT to predict the invasiveness of small lung adenocarcinoma

PURPOSE

To investigate the prevalence of multidetector CT (MDCT) air bronchograms and their value in predicting the invasiveness of lung adenocarcinomas.

METHODS

MDCT scans of 606 nodules in 582 patients with a lung adenocarcinoma less than 2cm in diameter confirmed by surgery and pathology were reviewed. Air bronchograms were classified into three patterns: type I, bronchus with intact lumen; type II, bronchus with dilated or tortuous lumen; and type III, bronchus with obstructed lumen.

RESULTS

Air bronchograms were demonstrated on MDCT in 210 of 606 (34.7%) lung adenocarcinomas with 16.6% (35/211) preinvasive lesions (PL), 30.5% (50/164) minimally invasive adenocarcinoma (MIA), and 54.1% (125/231) invasive adenocarcinoma (IAC) (P=0.000); 18.3% (44/240) pure ground-glass nodules (GGNs), 44.2% (137/310) mixed GGNs, and 51.8% (29/56) solid nodules (P=0.000). Type I was slightly more common in MIA (36/164, 22.0%) than IAC (40/231, 17.3%) and PL (30/211, 14.2%) but without differences among them (P=0.147). Type II (PL: 5/211, 2.4%; MIA: 13/164, 7.9%; IAC: 53/231, 22.9%) and type III (PL: 0/211; MIA: 1/164, 0.6%; IAC: 32/231, 13.9%) were observed more frequently with increasing lung adenocarcinoma invasiveness (both P=0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence and patterns of air bronchograms on MDCT can predict the invasiveness of small lung adenocarcinomas.

Radial endobronchial ultrasound in diagnosing peripheral lung lesions in a high tuberculosis setting

Background

Current data for the utility of radial endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) in investigating peripheral lung lesions (PLLs) has been restricted to populations with low pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) incidence. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic utility of radial EBUS with guide sheath in the diagnosis of peripheral lung lesions in Singapore, a high TB incidence setting.

Methods

A post-hoc database analysis was performed. 123 consecutive patients with computed tomographic evidence of PLLs who underwent radial EBUS guided bronchoscopy were included.

Results

The final diagnosis was malignancy in 76 cases and benign in 44 cases. Radial EBUS guided bronchoscopy had a sensitivity of 65.8 % for malignancy, positive predictive value of 100 %, negative predictive value of 62.9 %, and a diagnostic accuracy of 82.5 %. 22 patients had a final diagnosis of pulmonary TB. The diagnostic sensitivity for pulmonary TB was 77.3 %, with a positive predictive value of 100 %, negative predictive value of 95.2 % and a diagnostic accuracy of 95.8 %. Overall, 58.8 % of pulmonary TB cases relied on histology to make an early diagnosis.

Conclusion

Radial EBUS guided bronchosopy is useful in investigating PLLs in a high TB incidence setting. Our data also suggests that radial EBUS is a more rapid diagnosis technique for tuberculous lesions.

Diagnostic utility of peripheral endobronchial ultrasound with electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy in peripheral lung nodules

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic utility of peripheral endobronchial ultrasound (pEBUS) followed by as-needed electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) for sampling peripheral lung nodules.

METHODS

The study was a single-arm, prospective cohort study of patients with peripheral lung nodules. Peripheral lung lesion localization was initially performed using a pEBUS probe with guide sheath. If localization failed with pEBUS alone, ENB was used to help identify the lesion. Transbronchial biopsy, bronchial brush, transbronchial needle aspiration and bronchial washings were performed.

RESULTS

Sixty patients were enrolled with average lesion size of 27 mm and mean pleural distance of 20 mm. Lesions were found with pEBUS alone in 75% of cases. The addition of ENB improved lesion localization to 93%. However, diagnostic yield for pEBUS alone and pEBUS with ENB were 43% and 50%, respectively. Factors predicting need for ENB use included smaller lesion size and absence of an air bronchus sign on computed tomography.

CONCLUSIONS

ENB improves localization of lung lesions after unsuccessful pEBUS but is often not sufficient to ensure confirmation of a specific diagnosis. Technical improvements in sampling methods could improve the diagnostic yield.

Flexible bronchoscopy

Although bronchoscopy technology continues to evolve at a fairly rapid pace, basic procedures, such as bronchoalveolar lavage, transbronchial lung biopsy, and transbronchial needle aspiration, continue to play a paramount role in the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary diseases. Pulmonologists should be trained in these basic bronchoscopic procedures.

Newer modalities in the work-up of peripheral pulmonary nodules

Technological advances in recent years have translated into the availability of newer modalities to establish the cause of peripheral pulmonary nodules (PPN). Even though the verdict is still out on the ideal diagnostic modality, there is no doubt that the bronchoscope is becoming a popular tool in the armamentarium of physicians who deal with PPN. This article focuses on newer bronchoscopic modalities being studied for the work-up of PPN. The authors also summarize the value of established diagnostic modalities to provide a balanced perspective.

Limited value of ⁹⁹mTc depreotide single photon emission CT compared with CT for the evaluation of pulmonary lesions

OBJECTIVES

A contrast-enhanced multidetector CT (MDCT) scan is the first choice examination when evaluating patients with suspected lung cancer. However, while the clinical focus is on CT, research focus is on molecular biological methods whereby radiolabelled pharmaceuticals are injected into participants and target malignant lung tumours. We examined whether a contrast-enhanced MDCT scan supplied with an additional non-contrast enhanced high-resolution CT scan, or a newer but more expensive (99m)Tc depreotide single photon emission CT (SPECT) scan, was the better first-choice examination for the work-up of pulmonary lesions. Furthermore, we examined whether a (99m)Tc depreotide SPECT scan was an appropriate second-choice examination for patients with indeterminate lesions.

METHODS

140 participants were included in the analysis. CT images were given a malignancy potential rating of 1, 2 or 3 with higher rating being indicative of disease. (99m)Tc depreotide SPECT images were graded either positive or negative. Histopathology and CT follow-up were used as reference standard. Sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy were calculated.

RESULTS

Overall sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of CT were 97%, 30% and 84%, respectively. Overall sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of (99m)Tc depreotide SPECT were 94%, 58% and 76%, respectively. For indeterminate lesions sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of (99m)Tc depreotide SPECT were 71%, 68% and 69%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Both CT and (99m)Tc depreotide SPECT made valuable contributions to the evaluation of pulmonary lesions. (99m)Tc depreotide SPECT results were not superior to CT results and did not contribute further to the diagnostic work-up. Regarding indeterminate lesions,( 99m)Tc depreotide SPECT sensitivity was too low.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of transbronchial needle aspiration of pulmonary lesions without endobronchial affectation

Transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) of pulmonary lesions without endobronchial affectation in combination with transbronchial biopsy (TBB) has been shown to increase diagnostic performance. The objective of this present study was to analyze whether the combination of TBNA with conventional TBB is a cost-effective approach.

METHODOLOGY

Ours is a prospective study that included patients with lung nodules or masses with no evidence of endobronchial lesions after flexible bronchoscopy in whom both TBNA and TBB were performed. We analyzed the additional diagnostic value, the impact of TBNA on the cost of the diagnosis and the minimum level of sensitivity required in order for TBNA combined with TBB to be considered a cost-effective diagnostic approach.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients were included in the study, 25 of whom were males. TBB reached a histologic diagnosis in 39% of the cases, and its combination with TBNA diagnosed 47%. The mean diameter of the lesions was significantly greater in the positive TBNA cases compared with the negative cases (31 vs. 23mm; p=0,034). The cost analysis did not show the additional TBNA to be more cost-effective, despite demonstrating greater diagnostic sensitivity. The minimum sensitivity required for TBNA combined with TBB to be considered a cost-effective approach was 88%.

CONCLUSION

The contribution of TBNA to TBB in the diagnosis of lung nodules or masses without associated endobronchial lesions does not seem to justify the additional economic cost.

High resolution spiral CT for determining the malignant potential of solitary pulmonary nodules: refining and testing the test

BACKGROUND

A solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN) may represent early stage lung cancer. Lung cancer is a devastating disease with an overall 5-year mortality rate of approximately 84% but with early detection and surgery as low as 47%. Currently a contrast-enhanced multiple-row detector CT (MDCT) scan is the first examination when evaluating patients with suspected lung cancer.

PURPOSE

To apply an additional high resolution CT (HRCT) to SPNs to test whether certain morphological characteristics are associated with malignancy, to assess the diagnostic accuracy of HRCT in the characterization of SPNs, and to address the reproducibility of all measures.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Two hundred and thirteen participants with SPNs were included in a follow-up study. Blinded HRCT images were assessed with regard to margin risk categories (MRCs), calcification patterns and certain other characteristics and overall malignancy potential ratings (MPRs) were given. Morphological characteristics were tested against reference standard and ROC methodology was applied to assess diagnostic accuracy. Reproducibility was measured with Kappa statistics and 95% confidence intervals were computed for all results. Histopathology (90%) and CT follow-up (10%) were used as reference standard.

RESULTS

MRCs (P < 0.001), calcification patterns (P = 0.003), and pleural retraction (P < 0.001) were all statistically significantly associated to malignancy. Reproducibility was moderate to substantial. Sensitivity, specificity, and overall diagnostic accuracy of HRCT were 98%, 23% and 87%, respectively. Reproducibility was substantial.

CONCLUSION

Statistically significant associations between SPN MRCs, calcification patterns, pleural retraction and malignancy were found. HRCT yielded a very high sensitivity and a somewhat lower specificity for malignancy. Reproducibility was high.

Changes and current state of diagnosis of lung cancer after development of the flexible bronchofiberscope

The flexible bronchofiberscope developed by Ikeda et al. has brought about revolutionary changes in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. Advances in this device are continuing to emerge and lesions even smaller than those visible to the naked eye can now be visualized. In addition, the use of ultrasound now enables diagnosis of extramural bronchial lesions. Bronchoscopy is also used for the treatment of early hilar lung cancer, and in patients with airway stenosis due to advanced cancer, laser therapy, brachytherapy, and stenting can be performed. The bronchofiberscope is also very useful for tissue sampling from the lung periphery. Further advances in computed tomography imaging have enabled bronchoscopy under computed tomography fluoroscopy, and virtual bronchoscopy images can be generated from computed tomography imaging. Navigation systems have been developed to show the target bronchus where instruments such as forceps should be guided. Computed tomography imaging has made remarkable advances, and computed tomography now plays a central role in chest imaging, including early detection of lesions by low-dose computed tomography, qualitative diagnosis by high-resolution computed tomography and diagnosis of disease progression by contrast computed tomography. Ikeda et al. introduced the concept of personal health data recording system to manage these various images but the technology was not mature enough at that time for implementation. With modern advances in information technology, this is likely to be realized using an electronic health record system.

Multivariate study of predictive factors for clearly defined lung lesions without visible endobronchial lesions in transbronchial biopsy

BACKGROUND

Although the diagnostic validity and predictive factors for the diagnostic yield of transbronchial biopsy (TBB) of clearly defined pulmonary lesions with no visible endobronchial lesion have been analyzed in numerous studies, very few have used multivariate analysis techniques to evaluate the validity of TBB as a diagnostic tool or to analyze the independent influence of clearly dependent variables, such as the bronchus sign and lesion size.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed all cases in which this type of lesion underwent TBB under fluoroscopic control between 2006 and 2008. The analyzed variables included lesion size, localization, the presence of the bronchus sign, and the final result obtained. We performed a descriptive analysis of the TBB results and a multivariate analysis of the predictive factors for the results using logistic regression techniques.

RESULTS

A total of 273 patients (206 males, 75.5%) were included in the study. The average lesion diameter was 34 (± 16) mm, with 24% 2 cm or smaller. Twenty-eight percent of the lesions were localized in the lower lobes and 32% in the peripheral third of the lung. The bronchus sign was present in 28% of the patients. Seventy-eight percent of the patients had primary or metastatic malignant lung lesions, the rest were benign lesions of diverse etiology. TBB was diagnostic in 45.4% of cases. In the multivariate analysis, the only independent predictors of outcome were malignant etiology (OR = 4.8; 95% CI = 2.210.4), diameter >20 mm (OR = 3.6; 95% CI = 1.8-7.3), and the presence of the bronchus sign (OR = 2.4; 95% CI = 1.3-4.3).

CONCLUSIONS

TBB of lesions clearly delimited without an endobronchial lesion can lead to diagnosis in almost half of the patients. The nature of the lesion, diameter >20 mm, and the presence of the bronchus sign are independent predictors of outcome.

A novel needle-type sampling device for flexible ultrathin bronchoscopy

Diagnosis of suspected cancer in the periphery of the lung is difficult. A flexible ultrathin bronchoscope has been developed for the diagnosis of peripherally located pulmonary lesions that cannot be reached with the sampling devices for standard flexible bronchoscopes. The diagnostic yield with forceps and a brush for ultrathin bronchoscopes, however, is not adequate, especially when a lesion is not exposed to the bronchial lumen. We have thus developed a novel needle-type sampling device and tested its yield in transbronchial cytology. The device consists of an elongated dental H-file (0.4 mm in diameter and 110 cm in length), a housing sheath (1.0 mm in outer diameter), and a novel handle, which enables rapid out-and-in motion of the needle. Ten consecutive patients with a peripheral pulmonary lesion who had an indication for diagnostic procedure with a flexible ultrathin bronchoscope were enrolled. The optimal bronchial route to the lesion was analyzed with virtual bronchoscopy in a data set obtained with high-resolution computed tomography, and a novel bronchial route labeling system (prior-ridge-based relative orientation nomenclature) was employed to guide insertion of the bronchoscope. Sampling with the novel needle was performed prior to use of the forceps and brush under conventional fluoroscopy. In all the cases, sampling with the needle was successful and the amount of the specimen was sufficient for cytology. Our novel sampling system with flexible ultrathin bronchoscopes may contribute to accurate and minimally invasive diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions.

[Proposed terms for endobronchial lesions in patients suspected of having a bronchial neoplasm]

Endoscopists describe lung cancer lesions using varying terminology. This study aimed to assess the probability of neoplastic disease in terms of endoscopic findings expressed in an original classification system. The endoscopic lesions were classified as infiltrations (superficial lesions without a clear border with normal mucosa) or masses (exophytic lesions easily distinguished from the bronchial wall). Each lesion was categorized according to 3 grades reflecting probability of malignancy. A grade I infiltration was a lesion presenting 1 of the following characteristics: loss of luster, increased thickness, or redness, with a smooth surface. A grade II infiltration presented 2 of the aforementioned characteristics, with a rough surface. A grade III infiltration presented 3 of those characteristics. A grade I mass was an exophytic lesion with a smooth surface, uniformly colored. A grade II mass presented a smooth surface of a distinct color, and a grade III mass had a rough surface and irregular coloring. We assessed 377 patients with suspicion of neoplasm. Twenty-three percent of the infiltrations were grade I carcinomas, 74% were grade II, and 95% were grade III. Twenty-three percent of masses were grade I, 77% were grade II, and 97% were grade III. The probability of malignancy increased significantly with grade (P< .001) for both types of lesion. In summary, there is a positive correlation between the terms used and the probability of carcinoma. Most grade III lesions were carcinomas, but apparently innocuous grade I lesions could be carcinomas in a significant number of cases.

The relationship between solitary pulmonary nodules and bronchi: multi-slice CT-pathological correlation

AIM

To investigate the relationship between solitary pulmonary nodules (SPN) and bronchi and its value in predicting the nature of the SPN.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed volumetric targeted scans of 0.5 mm collimation with multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT), reconstructing multiplanar reconstructions (MPR), curved multiplanar reconstructions (CMPR) and surface-shaded display (SSD) images of bronchi in 78 consecutive patients with SPN (53 malignant and 25 benign) and correlated the findings with those of macroscopic and microscopic specimens.

RESULTS

With this CT protocol, the third to seventh-order bronchi were shown continuously and very clearly in all patients. CT findings were consistent with those of specimens. CT demonstrated the relationship between the SPN and bronchi in 46 (86.8%) malignant and 18 (75.0%) benign nodules. Five types of tumour-bronchus relationships were identified with MSCT. Type I: the bronchus was obstructed abruptly by the SPN; type II: the bronchus penetrated into the SPN with tapered narrowing and interruption; type III: the bronchial lumen shown within the SPN was patent and intact; type IV: the bronchus ran around the periphery of the SPN with intact lumen; type V: the bronchus was displaced, compressed and narrowed by the SPN. Malignant nodules were most commonly of type I (58.5%), secondly of type IV (26.4%) and rarely of type V (1.9%). Benign nodules were most often of type V (36.0%), followed by type III (20.0%), type I (16.0%), and there were no type II. Types I, II and IV were more common in malignant nodules, whereas type V was seen more frequently seen in benign nodules (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding type III.

CONCLUSION

Ultra-thin section with MSCT and MPR, CMPR and SSD reconstruction can improve the demonstration of the patterns of tumour-bronchus relationships, which can reflect the pathological changes of the nodules to some extent and help differentiate malignant from benign tumours.

Bronchoscopy and needle biopsy techniques for diagnosis and staging of lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. The individual therapeutic approach and prognosis depends on accurate diagnosis and staging. Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) and transthoracic needle biopsy (TNB) are the most widely used techniques for this purpose. This article provides a critical overview of indications, diagnostic yield, and limitations of bronchoscopy and TNB in the diagnosis of lung cancer.

Differentiation of malignant from benign solitary pulmonary lesions using chest radiography, spiral CT and HRCT

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this prospective study was to summarize all of the qualitative and quantitative imaging criteria for the differentiation of solitary pulmonary lesions (SPLs) as malignant (MSPLs) or benign (BSPLs) described in the literature and to critically analyze the different characteristics in order to evaluate their clinical importance and usefulness as criteria for a discrimination during the primary diagnostic assessment of SPLs using chest radiography, spiral computed tomography (SCT) and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SPLs were examined, evaluated and then completely removed by surgery in 104 consecutive patients (MSPLs n=81, BSPLs n=23). No SPL was excluded by size. Chest radiography was performed with frontal and lateral views, SCT was carried out with a slice thickness of 8 mm and HRCT with a slice thickness of 1 mm and a 12-cm field of view.

RESULTS

All the characteristics which enabled a reliable differentiation of MSPLs from BSPLs were characteristics which were observed significantly more frequently in MSPLs than BSPLs. Useful characteristics for the differentiation of MSPLs from BSPLs (1) using chest radiography were the indistinct edge (P<0.0001) and a ground-glass opacity of the lung parenchyma adjacent to the SPL (P<0. 05); (2) using SCT the presence of spicules (P<0.0005), the vessel sign (P<0.0005), necrotic areas (P<0.001), spicules extending to the visceral pleura (P<0.005), circumscribed pleural thickening (P<0. 005), inhomogeneity (P<0.01), a ground-glass opacity of the lung parenchyma adjacent to the SPL (P<0.01), the lesion density (P<0.05), pleural retraction (P<0.05) and the bronchus sign (P<0.05); and (3) using HRCT the presence of spicules (P<0.00005), spicules extending to the visceral pleura (P<0.0005), the vessel sign (P<0.0005), pleural retraction (P<0.001), circumscribed pleural thickening (P<0. 001), the bronchus sign (P<0.005), a ground-glass opacity of the lung parenchyma adjacent to the SPL (P<0.01), the lesion density (P<0.05) and the length of spicules (P<0.05). Using any one of the characteristics with a significance level of P<0.01, the identification of MSPLs (1) using chest radiography showed a sensitivity of 64.2% and a specificity of 82.6% (accuracy of 68.3%); (2) using SCT a sensitivity of 88.9% and a specificity of 60.9% (accuracy of 82.7%); and (3) using HRCT a sensitivity of 91.4% and a specificity of 56.5% (accuracy of 83.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Using chest radiography, SCT and HRCT, a precise morphological assessment of the periphery of the pulmonary lesion and the adjacent visceral pleura is necessary to distinguish MSPLs from BSPLs. In this respect SCT and HRCT are useful in differentiation of MSPLs from BSPLs. However, metastases strongly resembled benign lesions in terms of size and edge type and chronic inflammatory pseudotumors as a group mimic MSPLs.