Outcome of Solitary Pulmonary Nodules Discovered in an X-Ray Screening Program

Abstract

SOLITARY pulmonary nodules have caused considerable concern ever since the advent of roentgenography made their detection possible during life. This concern has been heightened in recent years by the high proportion of malignant neoplasms found in many series of excised nodules.^{1 2 3 4} This finding, together with the low mortality and morbidity associated with modern chest surgery, has led clinicians to consider removal of a solitary nodule almost immediately upon discovery. Although such a practice seems sound in the light of present limited knowledge, the management of these solitary nodules would be on much firmer ground if the risks for those not . . .