CT Appearances of Pulmonary Tuberculomas / 实用放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To discuss and analyze the CT appearances and differential diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculomas. Methods 40 cases of pulmonary tuberculomas proved by surgery and pathology were included in the study and compared to 40 cases of peripheral-type bronchogenic carcinomas, which were also surgico-pathologically proved. Results Tuberculomas were most found in the posterior segments of the lung and exhibited well-demarcated lesions of homogeneous density. Some lesions also possessed characteristics like rough spiculation, minute calcification within the lesion and marginal calcification. Thick-walled, thin-walled or stellate cavities were also found. On contrast enhanced scans, tuberculomas showed little or ring enhancement. In addition, satelite lesions or pleural thickening were often found near the tuberculomas. Hilar and mediastinal lymph-nodes were calcified but not enlarged. Anti-tuberbulosis therapy often resulted in little or even no absorption.Conclusion More accurate diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculomas could be made after careful analysis of all CT signs and the clinical data. CT-guided needle biopsy could be used when the dignosis could not be made clearly.