Subpleural pulmonary nodules

Subpleural pulmonary nodules are location-based category of pulmonary nodules and are also often considered a type of perilymphatic nodule.

Pathology

Location

In most occasions, they abut directly the costal pleural surfaces, and to a lesser degree the diaphragmatic and mediastinal pleural surfaces. They occur in various shapes and may have broad or narrow contact with the pleura. They can sometimes lie slightly deeper and be connected to pleura with a pleural tag.

Significance

According to one study, all non-calcified solid nodules attached to the costal pleura less than 10 mm in average diameter, with lentiform, oval, semicircular, or triangular shapes and smooth margins, were proven to be benign. Many authorities usually recommend an annual repeat scan at around 1 year for incidentally detected such nodules.

If they are irregular in shape then the approach may be different.

See also