The diagnostic accuracy of CT-guided percutaneous core needle biopsy and fine needle aspiration in pulmonary lesions: a meta-analysis

Histology profiling of lung tumors: tru-cut versus full-core system for CT-guided biopsies

PURPOSE

We aimed to compare the diagnostic yield and procedure-related complications of two different types of systems for percutaneous CT-guided lung biopsy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All patients with a lung lesion who underwent a CT-guided lung biopsy at our institution, between January 2019 and 2021, were retrospectively analyzed. The inclusion criteria were: (a) Procedures performed using either a fully automated tru-cut or a semi-automated full-core biopsy needle, (b) CT images demonstrating the position of the needles within the lesion, (c) histopathological result of the biopsy and (d) clinical follow-up for at least 12 months and\or surgical histopathological results. A total of 400 biopsy fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected and enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

Overall technical success was 100% and diagnostic accuracy was 84%. Tru-cut needles showed a significantly higher diagnostic accuracy when compared to full-core needles (91% vs. 77%, p = 0.0004) and a lower rate of pneumothorax (31% vs. 41%, p = 0.047). Due to the statistically significant different of nodules size between the two groups, we reiterated the statistical analysis splitting our population around the 20 mm cut-off for nodule size. We still observed a significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between tru-cut and full-core needles favoring the former for both smaller and larger lesions (81% vs. 71%, p = 0.025; and 92% vs. 81%; p = 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrated that the use of automated tru-cut needles is associated with higher histopathological diagnostic accuracy compared to semi-automated full-core needles for CTLB.

The Impact of Rapid On-site Evaluation on Diagnostic Performance of Computed Tomography-Guided Core Needle Biopsy in Lung Cancer

PURPOSE

Rapid on-site-evaluation (ROSE) is a technique aimed at improving the diagnostic performance of computed tomography (CT)-guided core needle biopsy (CNB) in lung cancer. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the impact of ROSE on the rate of nondiagnostic specimens and on accuracy computed on diagnostic specimens.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

During a 3-year period, 417 CT-guided CNBs were performed at our center. The biopsies were retrospectively classified into 2 groups: 141 procedures were assisted by ROSE and 276 were not. All of them were reviewed for clinical, procedural, and pathological data. Pathology results were classified as diagnostic (positive or negative for malignancy) or nondiagnostic. The results were compared with the final diagnosis after surgery or clinical follow-up. Nondiagnostic rate, sensitivity/specificity/negative predictive value/positive predictive value for the ROSE and non-ROSE groups were calculated. Finally, procedural complications and the adequacy of the specimens for the molecular analysis were recorded.

RESULTS

The study evaluated 417 CNBs (mean patients' age 71 years, 278 men). Nondiagnostic rates with and without ROSE were 4% (6/142) and 11% (29/276), respectively (P = 0.028). Sensitivity/specificity/negative predictive value/positive predictive value with and without ROSE did not show statistically significant differences, and no difference in major/minor complication rates was observed between the 2 groups. The adequacy of specimen for subsequent molecular analysis was 100% with (42/42) and 82% without ROSE (51/62).

CONCLUSIONS

Rapid on-site-evaluation reduced the rate of nondiagnostic specimens by 50% with no change in complication rates or accuracy and increased by 20% the chances of a successful subsequent molecular analysis.

Special Considerations and Techniques of Interventions in Lung Transplant Recipients

Lung transplant remains an important treatment option for patients with end-stage lung diseases providing improvement in survival rates and quality of life. Specialized considerations should be applied with interventions of lung transplant recipients as they host specific anatomic variations and high risk towards certain complications. In this article, we highlight the role of interventional radiology for lung transplant recipients along with discussion of interventional techniques. Specific emphasis is placed on describing and explaining the techniques pertained to the points of anastomosis, diagnosis and treatment of malignancies, and management of complications in lung transplant recipients.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Incidentally Detected Indeterminate Pulmonary Nodule

Incidental pulmonary nodules are common. Although the majority are benign, most are indeterminate for malignancy when first encountered making their management challenging. CT remains the primary imaging modality to first characterize and follow-up incidental lung nodules. This document reviews available literature on various imaging modalities and summarizes management of indeterminate pulmonary nodules detected incidentally. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.

Morphologic Severity of Atypia Is Predictive of Lung Cancer Diagnosis

In cytologic analysis of lung nodules, specimens classified as atypia cannot be definitively diagnosed as benign or malignant. Atypia patients are typically subject to additional procedures to obtain repeat samples, thus delaying diagnosis. We evaluate morphologic categories predictive of lung cancer in atypia patients. This retrospective study stratified patients evaluated for primary lung nodules based on cytologic diagnoses. Atypia patients were further stratified based on the most severe verbiage used to describe the atypical cytology. Logistic regressions and receiver operator characteristic curves were performed. Of 129 patients with cytologic atypia, 62.8% later had cytologically or histologically confirmed lung cancer and 37.2% had benign respiratory processes. Atypia severity significantly predicted final diagnosis even while controlling for pack years and modified Herder score (p = 0.012). Pack years, atypia severity, and modified Herder score predicted final diagnosis independently and while adjusting for covariates (all p < 0.001). This model generated a significantly improved area under the curve compared to pack years, atypia severity, and modified Herder score (all p < 0.001) alone. Patients with severe atypia may benefit from repeat sampling for cytologic confirmation within one month due to high likelihood of malignancy, while those with milder atypia may be followed clinically.

EarlyCDT Lung blood test for risk classification of solid pulmonary nodules: systematic review and economic evaluation

BACKGROUND

EarlyCDT Lung (Oncimmune Holdings plc, Nottingham, UK) is a blood test to assess malignancy risk in people with solid pulmonary nodules. It measures the presence of seven lung cancer-associated autoantibodies. Elevated levels of these autoantibodies may indicate malignant disease. The results of the test might be used to modify the risk of malignancy estimated by existing risk calculators, including the Brock and Herder models.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives were to determine the diagnostic accuracy, clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of EarlyCDT Lung; and to develop a conceptual model and identify evidence requirements for a robust cost-effectiveness analysis.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE (including Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE Daily and Ovid MEDLINE), EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Science Citation Index, EconLit, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Health Technology Assessment database, NHS Economic Evaluation Database ( NHS EED ) and the international Health Technology Assessment database were searched on 8 March 2021.

REVIEW METHODS

A systematic review was performed of evidence on EarlyCDT Lung, including diagnostic accuracy, clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. Study quality was assessed with the quality assessment of diagnostic accuracy studies-2 tool. Evidence on other components of the pulmonary nodule diagnostic pathway (computerised tomography surveillance, Brock risk, Herder risk, positron emission tomography-computerised tomography and biopsy) was also reviewed. When feasible, bivariate meta-analyses of diagnostic accuracy were performed. Clinical outcomes were synthesised narratively. A simulation study investigated the clinical impact of using EarlyCDT Lung. Additional reviews of cost-effectiveness studies evaluated (1) other diagnostic strategies for lung cancer and (2) screening approaches for lung cancer. A conceptual model was developed.

RESULTS

A total of 47 clinical publications on EarlyCDT Lung were identified, but only five cohorts (695 patients) reported diagnostic accuracy data on patients with pulmonary nodules. All cohorts were small or at high risk of bias. EarlyCDT Lung on its own was found to have poor diagnostic accuracy, with a summary sensitivity of 20.2% (95% confidence interval 10.5% to 35.5%) and specificity of 92.2% (95% confidence interval 86.2% to 95.8%). This sensitivity was substantially lower than that estimated by the manufacturer (41.3%). No evidence on the clinical impact of EarlyCDT Lung was identified. The simulation study suggested that EarlyCDT Lung might potentially have some benefit when considering intermediate risk nodules (10-70% risk) after Herder risk analysis. Two cost-effectiveness studies on EarlyCDT Lung for pulmonary nodules were identified; none was considered suitable to inform the current decision problem. The conceptualisation process identified three core components for a future cost-effectiveness assessment of EarlyCDT Lung: (1) the features of the subpopulations and relevant heterogeneity, (2) the way EarlyCDT Lung test results affect subsequent clinical management decisions and (3) how changes in these decisions can affect outcomes. All reviewed studies linked earlier diagnosis to stage progression and stage shift to final outcomes, but evidence on these components was sparse.

LIMITATIONS

The evidence on EarlyCDT Lung among patients with pulmonary nodules was very limited, preventing meta-analyses and economic analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence on EarlyCDT Lung among patients with pulmonary nodules is insufficient to draw any firm conclusions as to its diagnostic accuracy or clinical or economic value.

FUTURE WORK

Prospective cohort studies, in which EarlyCDT Lung is used among patients with identified pulmonary nodules, are required to support a future assessment of the clinical and economic value of this test. Studies should investigate the diagnostic accuracy and clinical impact of EarlyCDT Lung in combination with Brock and Herder risk assessments. A well-designed cost-effectiveness study is also required, integrating emerging relevant evidence with the recommendations in this report.

STUDY REGISTRATION

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42021242248.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 26, No. 49. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Comparison between computed tomography-guided core and fine needle lung biopsy: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This meta-analysis was conducted to compare the safety and diagnostic performance between computed tomography (CT)-guided core needle biopsy (CNB) and fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) in lung nodules/masses patients.

METHODS

All relevant studies in the Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases that were published as of June 2020 were identified. RevMan version 5.3 was used for all data analyses.

RESULTS

In total, 9 relevant studies were included in the present meta-analysis. These studies were all retrospective and analyzed outcomes associated with 2175 procedures, including both CT-guided CNB (n = 819) and FNAB (n = 1356) procedures. CNB was associated with significantly higher sample adequacy rates than was FNAB (95.7% vs 85.8%, OR: 0.26; P < .00001), while diagnostic accuracy rates did not differ between these groups (90.1% vs 87.6%, OR: 0.8; P = .46). In addition, no differences in rates of pneumothorax (28.6% vs 23.0%, OR: 1.15; P = .71), hemorrhage (17.3% vs 20.1%, OR: 0.91; P = .62), and chest tube insertion (5.9% vs 4.9%, OR: 1.01; P = .97) were detected between these groups. Significant heterogeneity among included studies was detected for the diagnostic accuracy (I2 = 57%) and pneumothorax (I2 = 77%) endpoints. There were no significant differences between CNB and FNAB with respect to diagnostic accuracy rates for lung nodules (P = .90). In addition, we detected no evidence of significant publication bias.

CONCLUSIONS

CT-guided CNB could achieve better sample adequacy than FNAB did during the lung biopsy procedure. However, the CNB did not show any superiorities in items of diagnostic accuracy and safety.

Comparison of CT-Guided Core Needle Biopsy in Pulmonary Ground-Glass and Solid Nodules Based on Propensity Score Matching Analysis

Purpose: To compare the diagnostic accuracy and safety of computed tomography (CT)-guided core needle biopsy (CNB) between pulmonary ground-glass and solid nodules using propensity score matching (PSM) method and determine the relevant risk factors. Methods: This was a single-center retrospective cohort study using data from 665 patients who underwent CT-guided CNB of pulmonary nodules in our hospital between May 2019 and May 2021, including 39 ground-glass nodules (GGNs) and 626 solid nodules. We used a 1:4 PSM analysis to compared the diagnostic yields and complications rates of CT-guided CNB between 2 groups. Results: After PSM, 170 cases involved in the comparison (34 GGNs vs 136 solid nodules) were randomly matched (1:4) by patient demographics, clinical history, lesion characteristics, and procedure-related factors. There was no statistically significant difference in the diagnostic yields and complications rates between 2 groups. Significant pneumothorax incidence increase was noted at small lesion size, deep lesion location, and traversing interlobar fissure (P < .05). Post-biopsy hemorrhage was a protective factor for pneumothorax (P < .05). The size/proportion of consolidation of GGN did not influence the diagnostic accuracy and complication incidence (P > .05). Conclusions: The accuracy and safety of CT-guided CNB were comparable for ground-glass and solid nodules and the size/proportion of consolidation of GGN may be not a relevant risk factor. The biopsy should avoid traversing interlobar fissure as far as possible. Smaller lesion size and deeper lesion location may lead to higher pneumothorax rate and post-biopsy hemorrhage may be a protective factor for pneumothorax.

Pilot study of archimedes virtual bronchoscopic navigation system-guided biopsy to diagnose lung nodules in children

BACKGROUND

Peripheral pulmonary lesions are uncommon in children. Bronchoscopy is a minimal invasive method to obtain a diagnostic lung biopsy. However, due to the lack of effective guidance methods, the diagnostic efficacy of transbronchial lung biopsy for peripheral solitary pulmonary diseases is still limited.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Is the Archimedes virtual bronchoscopic navigation system safe and effective for the diagnosis of peripheral pulmonary lesions in children?

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This pilot study retrospectively analyzed the clinical features, radiological characteristics, operation processes, intra-and postoperative complications, and pathological results of five children who underwent Archimedes-guided biopsy of peripheral pulmonary lesions in Beijing Children's Hospital from May 2021 to May 2022.

RESULTS

The cohort comprised five children (all males) with age of 7.1-15.8 years. A guide sheath was inserted through the bronchoscope under the guidance of Archimedes combined with radial endobronchial ultrasound to complete the biopsy under general anesthesia. The fused fluoroscopy technique was used to reconfirm the location of the forceps prior to biopsy in all children. The forceps reached the lesion under the guidance of the navigation and the samples were collected successfully in all children. Pathological examination of the biopsy specimens showed Epstein-Barr virus infection-related lymphoproliferative disease in one child, pulmonary metastasis of rhabdomyosarcoma in one child, and pulmonary vasculitis in one child; high-throughput sequencing of the biopsy tissue sample identified Mycobacterium tuberculosis (sequence no. 80) in one child and Aspergillus (sequence no. 40) in another child. All five children tolerated the biopsy procedure without developing postoperative complications, such as pneumothorax and hemoptysis.

INTERPRETATION

Archimedes-guided bronchoscopic lung biopsy is a feasible and efficient way to diagnose peripheral pulmonary lesions in children with manageable complications.

Percutaneous Transthoracic Lung Biopsy: Optimizing Yield and Mitigating Risk

ABSTRACT

Percutaneous computed tomography-guided transthoracic lung biopsy is an effective and minimally invasive procedure to achieve tissue diagnosis. Radiologists are key in appropriate referral for further workup, with percutaneous computed tomography-guided transthoracic lung biopsy performed by both thoracic and general interventionalists. Percutaneous computed tomography-guided transthoracic lung biopsy is increasingly performed for both diagnostic and research purposes, including molecular analysis. Multiple patient, lesion, and technique-related variables influence diagnostic accuracy and complication rates. A comprehensive understanding of these factors aids in procedure planning and may serve to maximize diagnostic yield while minimizing complications, even in the most challenging scenarios.

Strategies for the Management of Solitary Pulmonary Nodules. A Survey of Patient Preferences

BACKGROUND

Guideline-based strategies for evaluation of solitary pulmonary nodules are tailored to the likelihood of malignancy. Surveillance, biopsy or resection are all reasonable approaches in fit individuals when the likelihood of malignancy is intermediate. Given the paucity of data demonstrating superior outcomes and important trade-offs between strategies, guidelines emphasize the importance of eliciting patient preferences and engaging in shared decision-making, however there is little literature on what patient preferences actually are.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional, interview-administered questionnaire in 100 adults recruited from a metropolitan teaching hospital, using a hypothetical scenario designed to elicit patient preferences for different management strategies of solitary pulmonary nodules with probability of malignancy between 10% and 70%.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 62 years (range 45 to 80), 56% were male, 94% were current or ex-smokers. Ninety-four percent completed all questions. At 10% probability of malignancy, 36.3% preferred surveillance, 42.4% preferred needle biopsy and 21.2% preferred surgical resection. Preference for surgical resection increased to 53.5% and 86.2% when the probability of malignancy was 30% and 70% respectively. Changes in the diagnostic yield of CT biopsy significantly altered preferences when probability of malignancy was 10% or 30%.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of participants surveyed expressed a preference for some type of biopsy over observation at all levels of solitary pulmonary nodule probability of malignancy evaluated. In an era of increasing solitary pulmonary nodule detection and patient-centered care, if confirmed in broader studies, these findings have considerable implications for processes of care and resource allocation.

Utility of liquid-based cytology on residual needle rinses collected from core needle biopsy for lung nodule diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Core needle biopsy (CNB) has become the most common tissue sampling modality for pathological diagnosis of peripheral lung nodules. However, approximately 10% of pulmonary CNB specimens cannot be unambiguously diagnosed, even with auxiliary techniques. This retrospective study investigated the diagnostic value of liquid-based cytology on residual pulmonary CNB material collected from needle rinses.

METHODS

Computed tomography-guided pulmonary CNB specimens and relevant cytology of CNB needle rinses (CNR) from July 2017 to June 2020 were reviewed. A total of 406 patients, each of whom underwent a CNB procedure, were included in the study.

RESULTS

Of the 406 cases, a more serious diagnosis was rendered by CNR in 6.4% (n = 26) of cases. Furthermore, among these 26 cases, 13 malignancies were confirmed only from CNR. Of the remaining 13 patients with uncertain lesions identified from CNR, six were diagnosed with definite benign lesions from tissue samples, five were found to harbor malignant neoplasms through repeated CNB or follow-up examination, and two had tuberculosis. The sensitivity (320/332, 96.4%) of combined CNR/CNB (both CNR and CNB) in distinguishing malignancies from benign lesions was higher than that of CNB alone (307/332, 92.5%). A total of 320 malignant neoplasms included 198 cases of primary lung adenocarcinoma and 71 cases of primary lung squamous cell carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

CNR with higher nuclear and cytoplasmic resolution than CNB exhibited a high diagnostic efficacy for differentiating malignant from benign lesions in the lung. Moreover, combined CNR/CNB achieved optimal results in reducing the false-negative rate and the subtyping of non-small cell lung cancer.

Pilot study using virtual 4-D tracking electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy in the diagnosis of pulmonary nodules: a single center prospective study

Background

Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) is a navigation technology intended to improve the diagnostic yield of pulmonary nodules. However, nodule displacement due to respiratory motion may compromise the accuracy of the navigation guidance. The Veran SPiNDrive ENB system employs respiratory-gating (4D-tracking) to compensate for this motion. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance and safety of the Veran SPiNDrive system for biopsy of pulmonary nodules.

Methods

Adult patients with pulmonary nodules of ≥1 cm were enrolled at a single center. Both conventional bronchoscopy and 4D-tracking ENB were performed in one procedure session under general anesthesia, with the procedure order being randomly assigned. Radial probe endobronchial ultrasound and fluoroscopy were used in both groups. The diagnostic performance, safety, total procedure time, and total fluoroscopy time of the ENB phase were compared to the corresponding conventional bronchoscopy phase.

Results

The study was terminated due to poor accrual; a total of eleven patients were enrolled. The mean size of pulmonary nodules was 2.1 cm. The sensitivity for malignancy was 67% (6/9) and 56% (5/9) with conventional bronchoscopy and with 4D-tracking ENB, respectively. Two cases developed minor bleeding after conventional bronchoscopy, while no complications were observed after 4D-tracking ENB. The mean procedure time was 16.1 and 21.7 min (P=0.090), and the mean duration time for fluoroscopy use was 77 and 44 sec (P=0.056) for the conventional bronchoscopy and the 4D-tracking ENB phases, respectively.

Conclusions

The diagnostic performance of the Veran SPiNDrive 4D-tracking ENB did not exceed that of conventional bronchoscopy for pulmonary nodules. No complications were seen during 4D-tracking ENB. A study with a larger number of participants is required for further assessment.

Computed tomography-guided biopsy of radiologically unclear lesions in advanced skin cancer: A retrospective analysis of 47 cases

BACKGROUND

Radiological imaging such as computed tomography (CT) is used frequently for disease staging and therapy monitoring in advanced skin cancer patients. Detected lesions of unclear dignity are a common challenge for treating physicians. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency and outcome of CT-guided biopsy (CTGB) of radiologically unclear, suspicious lesions and to depict its usefulness in different clinical settings.

METHODS

This retrospective monocentric study included advanced skin cancer patients (melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, angiosarcoma, cutaneous lymphoma) with radiologically unclear lesions who underwent CTGB between 2010 and 2018.

RESULTS

Of 59 skin cancer patients who received CTGB, 47 received CTGB to clarify radiologically suspicious lesions of unclear dignity. 32 patients had no systemic therapy (cohort A), while 15 patients received systemic treatment at CTGB (cohort B). In both cohorts, CTGB revealed skin cancer metastasis in a large proportion of patients (37.5%, 40.0%, respectively), but benign tissue showing inflammation, fibrosis or infection in an equally large percentage (37.5%, 46.7%, respectively). Additionally, a significant number of other cancer entities was found (25.0%, 13.3%, respectively). In patients receiving BRAF/MEK inhibitors, CTGB confirmed suspicious lesions as skin cancer metastasis in 83.3%, leading to treatment change. In immune checkpoint inhibitor-treated patients, skin cancer metastasis was confirmed in 11.1% of patients only, whereas benign tissue changes (inflammation/fibrosis) were found in 77.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results highlight the relevance of clarifying radiologically unclear lesions by CTGB before start or change of an anti-tumour therapy to exclude benign alterations and secondary malignancies.

Solitary pulmonary nodule imaging approaches and the role of optical fibre-based technologies

Solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) are a clinical challenge, given there is no single clinical sign or radiological feature that definitively identifies a benign from a malignant SPN. The early detection of lung cancer has a huge impact on survival outcome. Consequently, there is great interest in the prompt diagnosis, and treatment of malignant SPNs. Current diagnostic pathways involve endobronchial/transthoracic tissue biopsies or radiological surveillance, which can be associated with suboptimal diagnostic yield, healthcare costs and patient anxiety. Cutting-edge technologies are needed to disrupt and improve, existing care pathways. Optical fibre-based techniques, which can be delivered via the working channel of a bronchoscope or via transthoracic needle, may deliver advanced diagnostic capabilities in patients with SPNs. Optical endomicroscopy, an autofluorescence-based imaging technique, demonstrates abnormal alveolar structure in SPNs in vivo Alternative optical fingerprinting approaches, such as time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy and fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy, have shown promise in discriminating lung cancer from surrounding healthy tissue. Whilst fibre-based Raman spectroscopy has enabled real-time characterisation of SPNs in vivo Fibre-based technologies have the potential to enable in situ characterisation and real-time microscopic imaging of SPNs, which could aid immediate treatment decisions in patients with SPNs. This review discusses advances in current imaging modalities for evaluating SPNs, including computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography-CT. It explores the emergence of optical fibre-based technologies, and discusses their potential role in patients with SPNs and suspected lung cancer.

Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy Combined Endobronchial Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of Lung Nodules

ABSTRACT

Electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (ENB) combined with a radial endobronchial ultrasound probe realizes a combination of magnetic navigation and ultrasound imaging, allowing for the accurate navigation of peripheral lung lesions in real time during surgery. ENB has been evaluated in many studies. However, a comparative report on the feasibility of ENB combined radial endobronchial ultrasound diagnosis in different density lung nodules was small, and few of these studies have reported long-term follow-up results to exclude false negative results. The aim of this study is to explore the applicability of ENB combined radial endobronchial ultrasound in the diagnosis of lung nodules with different densities.Patients underwent biopsy in our medical center from 2016-09 to 2019-03 were divided into 2 groups: the solid nodule group and the subsolid pulmonary nodule group. We collected and analyzed the diagnostic accuracy, the diagnostic yield, the false negative rate and the incidence of complications between these 2 groups.A total of 37 lesions in 25 patients were biopsied, 14 lesions were subsolid pulmonary nodules and 23 were solid nodules. The diagnostic accuracy (success rate to obtain meaningful pathology tissues) was 34/37 (91.8%). Lost to follow-up in 1 case and three cases were undiagnosed. After at least 12 months of follow-up, the total diagnostic yield (true positive rate+ true negative rate) was 27/36 (75%) (P = .006). The false negative rate was 9/19 (47.3%) (P = .26). Complications occurred in 1/36 (2.7%) lesions. For the subsolid pulmonary nodule group, the diagnostic accuracy was 13/14 (92.8%) and the diagnostic yield was 7/14 (50%). For the solid nodule group, the diagnostic accuracy was 21/23 (91.3%), and the diagnostic yield was 20/22 (90.9%).Electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy combined with radial endobronchial ultrasound in peripheral lung nodule biopsies is safe and effective, especially for solid nodules, but the diagnostic yield in subsolid nodule biopsies remains to be improved.

CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy of pulmonary lesions: comparison between the cutting needle and aspiration needle

OBJECTIVES

To compare CT-guided transthoracic cutting needle biopsy (TCNB) with transthoracic aspiration needle biopsy (TANB) for pulmonary lesions with respect to the diagnostic accuracy and complication rate.

METHODS

Of the 859 cases that underwent consecutive CT-guided biopsy of pulmonary lesions, 713 cases confirmed by surgical pathology or clinical follow-up were enrolled. Of these, the first consecutive 275 cases underwent TANB, and the remaining 438 received TCNB. The final diagnosis determined the accuracy of biopsy. Based on the post-biopsy CT and clinical medical records, the presence or absence of biopsy-related complications was determined. The χ² test was used to compare the differences between TCNB and TANB in terms of diagnostic accuracy and complication rate.

RESULTS

Among the 713 biopsy lesions, the final diagnosis was malignant in 411 cases and benign in 302 cases. As compared to TANB, the diagnostic accuracy of TCNB (98.9% vs 93.8%, χ² = 14.35, p < 0.01), sensitivity to malignant lesions (97.8% vs 90.6%, χ² = 10.58, p < 0.01), negative predictive value (97.6% vs 84.8%, χ² = 19.03, p < 0.01), and specific diagnostic rate for benign lesions (73.4% vs 57.9%, χ² = 7.29, p < 0.01) were improved. On the other hand, a statistical difference was detected between TCNB and TANB with respect to the incidence of pneumothorax (20.6% vs 13.1%, χ² = 6.46, p = 0.01), hemorrhage (32.2% vs 13.1%, χ² = 33.03, p < 0.01), and hemoptysis (8.2% vs 3.3%, χ² = 6.87, p < 0.01). One patient died just several minutes after TCNB due to severe hemorrhage with hemoptysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to TANB, CT-guided TCNB improves the diagnostic accuracy of pulmonary lesions, but complication rate increases significantly.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

In general, TCNB should be recommended, especially for highly suspicious benign lesions. For patients with small lesions adjacent to vessels or vessels within the lesion, TANB should be considered.

Diagnostic utility of fine needle aspiration cytology and core biopsy histopathology with or without immunohistochemical staining in the subtyping of the non-small cell lung carcinomas: Experience from an academic centre in Turkey

INTRODUCTION

This retrospective morphological study compared the results of fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology, haematoxylin-eosin (HE)-stained samples and immunohistochemical (IHC)-stained core needle biopsy (CNB) histology samples for primary non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) subtyping. We assessed the diagnostic utility of these methods to investigate the contribution of each method to NSCLC subtyping. We also identified the point at which NSCLC subtyping could be performed using histomorphology alone without IHC.

METHODOLOGY

Concurrent FNA and CNB specimens obtained via a single computed tomography-guided procedure and diagnosed as NSCLC in the Pathology Department of our university within 3 years were reviewed. The results of FNA samples, HE-stained biopsies and IHC-stained biopsies were compared according to subtype.

RESULTS

A total of 141 subjects were enrolled in the study. For subtyping, FNA provided an accurate diagnosis in 70 (55.1%) of 127 eligible subjects after the exclusion of 14 cases determined as not otherwise specified. CNB histology without IHC achieved a diagnosis in 53 (41.7%) of 127 subjects, which was a significant difference (P < .05). The compatibility rate between HE-stained biopsy samples and IHC-stained biopsy samples was 41.7% (53/127).

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis rates achieved using FNA, HE-stained CNB samples and IHC-stained CNB samples were 54.6% (77/141), 37.6% (53/141) and 90.1% (127/141), respectively. The subtype was identified in 55.1% of the subjects evaluated using FNA and 41.7% of subjects assessed using HE-stained biopsy samples without IHC. FNA provided a better result for squamous cell carcinoma than adenocarcinoma (55.1% vs 47.6%), but the diagnosing of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma using HE-stained biopsy samples was similar (42% vs 41.7%).

Diagnostic efficacy and molecular testing by combined fine-needle aspiration and core needle biopsy in patients with a lung nodule

BACKGROUND

Combined image-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) and core needle biopsy (CNB) has become the standard of care for diagnosis and/or molecular testing for patients with a solitary lung nodule at our institution. Our purpose was to evaluate the efficacy of this practice.

METHODS

We identified patients who underwent combined lung FNA/CNB during 2012 at our institution. A total of 667 patients who underwent 682 combined lung FNA/CNB procedures were included in the study, including 355 men and 312 women. Combined lung FNA/CNB procedures were performed by a radiologist. The adequacy of FNA specimens was assessed immediately by a cytopathologist. The FNA and CNB specimens were interpreted separately by a cytopathologist and a surgical pathologist, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of the combined technique was determined.

RESULTS

The rate of diagnostic consistency between FNA and CNB was 83.4%, and the rate of diagnostic accuracy for malignancy was 98.5% for combined FNA/CNB. Combined FNA/CNB showed a high diagnostic efficacy for malignancy (sensitivity, 97.6%; specificity, 100%). Combined FNA/CNB had a lower false-negative rate for malignancy (2.2%) than either FNA (7.2%) or CNB (6.2%) alone. FNA contributed to 10.3% of molecular analyses as a complementary tissue source.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined lung FNA/CNB has high diagnostic efficacy for malignancy and a lower false-negative rate than either procedure alone. FNA was a valuable complement to CNB for molecular testing, potentially reducing patient inconvenience and morbidity associated with repeated lung needle biopsy.

Navigation Bronchoscopy

With the advent of lung cancer screening, and the increasingly frequent use of computed tomography (CT) scanning for investigating non-pulmonary pathology (for example CT coronary angiogram), the number of pulmonary nodules requiring further investigation has risen significantly. Most of these nodules are found in the lung periphery, which presents challenges to biopsy, and many centers rely on trans-thoracic needle biopsy performed under image guidance by radiologists. However, the desire to minimize complications is driving the development of increasingly accurate navigation bronchoscopy platforms, something that will be crucial in the new era of bronchoscopic therapeutics for lung cancer. This review describes these platforms, summarizes the current evidence for their use, and takes a look at future developments.

Ultrasound-Guided Transthoracic Fine-Needle Aspiration: A Reliable Tool in Diagnosis and Molecular Profiling of Lung Masses

INTRODUCTION

Pulmonary adenocarcinoma is a major cause of mortality worldwide. The majority of patients present with advanced stage disease, and minimally invasive procedures are desirable for diagnosis and treatment plans. Herein, we report our experience with percutaneous/transthoracic needle aspiration (TT-NA) in the cytologic diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

After institutional review board approval, the cytopathology electronic data system was searched for all consecutive TT-NA of the lung masses from January 2011 to November 2015. Patients' medical records were reviewed and cytologic materials were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 151 specimens were identified, with a mean age of 62.8 years; 62.9% of the patients had a prior history of malignancy. Carcinoma/adenocarcinoma was the most common (80%) diagnosis. The targeted lesions were predominantly located in the lung (56.3%, 81/151) and pleural based (27.8%, 42/151). The mean size of the lesions was 3.6 cm. Cytology specimens were adequate in 70.9% of the cases, while 72.8% (110/151) of the cases also had concurrent core biopsy. A malignant diagnosis was rendered in the majority of the cases (64.9%). In 71% of the cases, immunohistochemistry/histochemistry studies were successfully performed. Molecular/genetic studies were requested in 80% of the cases and had adequate material. Complications of the procedure were seen in 9.9% of the patients including pneumothorax (7.9%) and hemoptysis (1.9%).

CONCLUSION

TT-NA is a relatively safe and reliable technique in the assessment of pulmonary lesions.

Value of CT-guided percutaneous needle biopsy of bone in the diagnosis of lymphomas based on PET/CT results

Background

To evaluate the value of CT-guided percutaneous needle biopsy of bone in the diagnosis of lymphomas based on PET/CT results.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the records of all patients with percutaneous bone biopsies based on PET/CT results and a final diagnosis of lymphoma between January 2012 and August 2017 was performed. Thirty-one patients were included in this study. The success and complication rates were assessed.

Results

The mean age of the 31 patients was 46.6 ± 21.2 years, and there were 16 men and 15 women. A definite diagnosis and accurate histological subtype were obtained in 26 patients, for a success rate of 84%. The most common subtype was diffuse large B cell lymphoma (n = 18). The remaining subtypes included three cases of marginal-zone lymphoma, two cases of follicular lymphoma, one case of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, one case of peripheral T cell lymphoma, and one case of B cell lymphoblastic lymphoma. No serious complications occurred in any of the patients.

Conclusions

CT-guided needle biopsy based on PET/CT results is a reliable means of diagnosing and classifying lymphomas.

Diagnostic Performance of Core Needle Biopsy and Fine Needle Aspiration Separately or Together in the Diagnosis of Intrathoracic Lesions Under C-arm Guidance

Purpose:

To evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of fine needle aspiration (FNA) and core needle biopsy (CNB) of intrathoracic lesions using the same coaxial guide-needle under a C-arm Cone-Beam computed tomography system.

Materials and Methods:

Two hundred and eighty-eight patients (181 male, 107 female; 65.8 ± 13.3 years) with 293 lesions underwent 300 procedures, in which both FNA and CNB were performed. After inserting the coaxial guide-needle into the target lesion, we performed 18-gauge CNB, followed by 20-gauge FNA through the same coaxial guide-needle. The comparison of the procedures in which both showed adequate sample was performed with McNemar’s test (n = 229).

Results:

Of 300 procedures, 293 were technically successful. Adequate samples were obtained in 248/300 FNA and 288/300 CNB cases. The sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis of malignancy were respectively 84.7% (133/157), 100% (72/72) for FNA, when atypical cells included benign entity; 97.5% (153/157), 100% (72/72) for FNA, when atypical cells included malignancy; 97.6% (162/166), 100% (102/102) for CNB; and 100% (166/166), 100% (102/102) for combined FNA and CNB. Diagnosis of malignancy was significantly higher for CNB than for FNA (p < 0.001); however, it was not significantly higher when atypical cells included malignancy for FNA. Pneumothorax occurred in 50 (16.7%) and hemoptysis in 18 (6.0%) procedures.

Conclusions:

Combined use of CNB and FNA using the same coaxial guide-needle showed better diagnostic performance than using one alone. When comparing CNB and FNA, CNB showed significantly better performance, when atypical cells included a benign entity in FNA.

CT-guided Transthoracic Core-Needle Biopsies of Mediastinal and Lung Lesions in 235 Consecutive Patients: Factors Affecting the Risks of Complications and Occurrence of a Final Diagnosis of Malignancy

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of patient-, lesion- and procedure-related factors on the risks of complications and final diagnosis of malignancy in PCNB of mediastinal and lung lesions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We studied a large single-center cohort of 235 consecutive patients (66.8% men; 58.5±18.0 years) with a range of thoracic benign and malignant lesions, who underwent PCNB performed along 24 months by a single experienced radiologist. Diagnostic accuracy analyses of PCNB for malignancy were performed, as well as estimations of relative risk and logistic regression models in order to assess possible associations between such factors and malignancy/complications.

RESULTS

155 lesions (65.9%) were diagnosed as malignant. Overall accuracy was 91.1%, with sensitivity of 87.1%, specificity of 98.8%, positive predictive value of 99.3%, and negative predictive value of 79.8%. Pneumothorax (49/235; 20.8%) and hemorrhage (37/235; 15.7%) were the most common complications. Emphysema, smoking, older age, intrapulmonary location, deeper location, smaller size, presence of cavitations and irregular contours of the lesions, and smaller needle-pleural angles were the most consistent factors related to the occurrence of complications. Emphysema, older age, smoking, solid and deeper lesions were also significantly associated with a final diagnosis of malignancy after PCNB.

CONCLUSION

CT-guided PCNB of mediastinal and lung lesions is a safe procedure with high diagnostic accuracy for malignancy.

Success of genomic profiling of non-small cell lung cancer biopsies obtained by trans-thoracic percutaneous needle biopsy

PURPOSE

Genomic profiling for personalized targeted therapy has become standard of care. We report the success of genomic profiling of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) obtained by trans-thoracic needle biopsy (TTNB) in a single center experience.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with NSCLC who underwent TTNB for genomic were identified. Pathology specimens were evaluated for tumor adequacy and then analyzed for selected exons of epidermal growth factor receptor, KRAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, and ERBB2. ALK rearrangements were detected with fluorescence in situ hybridization and/or immunohistochemistry. Technical success was recorded and the factors affecting successful profiling were evaluated. Complications (pneumothorax, hemorrhage, and admission) were recorded. Comparison of yield and complications were done between the two groups (core biopsy and fine needle aspiration only group). Utility of PET-CT to guide the needle track for optimized yield was assessed in a subset of patients.

RESULTS

Between December 6, 2009, and December 30, 2016, 765 patients with NSCLC underwent TTNB. Five-hundred and seventy-seven of 765 (75%) of all TTNB were profiled, for genomic analysis. Five-hundred and eight of 577 (88%) were successfully profiled. The number of samples obtained ranged from 1 to 10 (1 to 2 cm, 18 to 20 G). Lesions biopsied ranged in size from 0.6 to 16 cm. No statistically significant difference was observed in the incidence of pneumothorax between two groups (P = 0.26). PET guidance was not found to be statistically significant ( P = 0.79) in the overall yield.

CONCLUSION

Computed tomographic guided TTNB is a safe and efficacious technique for genomic profiling, enables the acquisition of sufficient tissue for genetic mutation analyses allowing for personalized therapy with an acceptable complication rate.

Percutaneous lung needle biopsies - utility and complications in various chest lesions: a single-institution experience

Purpose

It is crucial to obtain a specific diagnosis before treatment of chest pathology is initiated. The purpose of the study is to present the utility of percutaneous biopsies, core and fine-needle aspiration, in various thoracic lesions, and related complications.

Material and methods

A total of 593 transthoracic biopsies were performed in the Department of Radiology between 2013 and 2016. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and core biopsy (CB) were implemented. The procedures were divided into four groups according to the location of the pathology: lung lesions (LL – 540), mediastinal masses (MM – 25), chest wall tumours (CWT – 13), and pleural lesions (PL – 15). The lung lesion group was divided into two subgroups: lung nodules and lung infiltrations. All groups were analysed in respect of diagnostic accuracy, pathological findings, and complication rate.

Results

Pathological diagnosis was confirmed in 447 cases after all 593 procedures. The sensitivity of malignancy diagnosis in the group of lung tumours was 75% for FNAB and 89% for CB. The sensitivity in other groups, where CB was a preferable technique, was counted for lung infiltration, mediastinal masses, chest wall tumours, and pleural lesions and amounted to 83.3%, 90.9%, 100%, and 85.7%, respectively. In the group of lung tumours malignancy was confirmed most commonly (79%), while in the lung infiltration group benign processes dominated (83%). There was no statistical difference between the pneumothorax rate after CB and FNAB. Haemoptysis appeared more often after CB.

Conclusions

FNAB and CB are useful, safe, and sensitive tools in the diagnostic work-up. They can both be used to diagnose almost all chest pathologies.

MRI for solitary pulmonary nodule and mass assessment: Current state of the art

Since the clinical introduction of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the chest has been one of its most challenging applications, and many physicists and radiologists have tried since the 1980s to use MR for assessment of different lung diseases as well as mediastinal and pleural diseases. Since then, however, technical advances in sequencing, scanners, and coils, adaptation of parallel imaging techniques, utilization of contrast media, and development of postprocessing tools have been reported by many basic and clinical researchers. As a result, state-of-the-art thoracic MRI is now substituted for traditional imaging techniques and/or plays a complementary role in the management of patients with various chest diseases, and especially in the detection of pulmonary nodules and in thoracic oncology. In addition, MRI has continued to be developed to help overcome the limitations of computed tomography (CT) and nuclear medicine examinations. It can currently provide not only morphological, but also functional, physiological, pathophysiological, and molecular information at 1.5T with a gradual shift from 1.5T to 3T MR systems. In this review, we focus on these recent advances in MRI for pulmonary nodule detection and pulmonary nodule and mass evaluation by using noncontrast-enhanced and contrast-enhanced techniques as well as new molecular imaging methods such as chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging for a comparison with other modalities such as single or multidetector row CT, 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), and/or PET/CT.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1437-1458.

Diagnosis of small pulmonary lesions by transbronchial lung biopsy with radial endobronchial ultrasound and virtual bronchoscopic navigation versus CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Advances in bronchoscopy and CT-guided lung biopsy have improved the evaluation of small pulmonary lesions (PLs), leading to an increase in preoperative histological diagnosis.

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transbronchial lung biopsy using radial endobronchial ultrasound and virtual bronchoscopic navigation (TBLB-rEBUS&VBN) and CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy (CT-TNB) for tissue diagnosis of small PLs.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in five electronic databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Scopus, for relevant studies in May 2016; the selected articles were assessed using meta-analysis. The articles were limited to those published after 2000 that studied small PLs ≤ 3 cm in diameter.

Results

From 7345 records, 9 articles on the bronchoscopic (BR) approach and 15 articles on the percutaneous (PC) approach were selected. The pooled diagnostic yield was 75% (95% confidence interval [CI], 69–80) using the BR approach and 93% (95% CI, 90–96) using the PC approach. For PLs ≤ 2 cm, the PC approach (pooled diagnostic yield: 92%, 95% CI: 88–95) was superior to the BR approach (66%, 95% CI: 55–76). However, for PLs > 2 cm but ≤ 3 cm, the diagnostic yield using the BR approach was improved to 81% (95% CI, 75–85). Complications of pneumothorax and hemorrhage were rare with the BR approach but common with the PC approach.

Conclusions

CT-TNB was superior to TBLB-rEBUS&VBN for the evaluation of small PLs. However, for lesions greater than 2 cm, the BR approach may be considered considering its diagnostic yield of over 80% and the low risk of procedure-related complications.

Lung radiodensity along the needle passage is a quantitative predictor of pneumothorax after CT-guided percutaneous core needle biopsy

AIM

To analyse whether the lowest value of lung radiodensity along the passage of the biopsy needle is a quantitative predictor of pneumothorax.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CT-guided percutaneous core needle biopsy (PCNB) procedures performed at Zhongnan Hospital were analysed retrospectively. Age, gender, lesion size, lesion depth, lesion location, patient position, number of passages, needle pleural angle, pulmonary bleeding, and lung radiodensity along the needle passage were collected and classified by the extent of pneumothorax. Univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression analysis were assessed to explore the independent risk factors for pneumothorax.

RESULTS

Six hundred and seventy-seven cases were included in the study, including 456 males and 221 females. Pneumothorax occurred in 40.18% of cases, of which 82.4% were mild, 14% were moderate, and 3.7% were severe. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that lesion size ≤2 cm (p=0.002), two or more passages (p=0.033), and lung radiodensity of -850 HU or less (p≤0.001) were independent risk factors for pneumothorax; bleeding (p<0.001) was a protective factor for pneumothorax.

CONCLUSIONS

The lowest value of lung radiodensity along the needle passage was a quantitative predictor of pneumothorax. A value of -850 HU or less was an independent risk factor for pneumothorax. As the value decreased, there was a higher risk of occurrence of more severe pneumothorax.

The value of cell block based on fine needle aspiration for lung cancer diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous lung fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a convenient method to obtain samples from pulmonary lesions. FNA has a lower rate of complications than the use of a core needle biopsy, but is more difficult for the diagnosis of cytological samples. We use cell block (CB) and immunocytochemistry (ICC) to improve the accuracy of cytological diagnoses based on CT-guided percutaneous lung FNA.

METHODS

We collected 526 cytological samples obtained using CT-guided percutaneous lung FNA at Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital from May 2015 to October 2015. CBs were created from these samples, and ICC was performed to help the further histological classification and confirmation of tumor as primary or metastatic. An automated Ventana ALK with clone D5F3 was used to identify ALK fusion protein.

RESULTS

After assessment of the CBs, 32 (6.08%) diagnoses of suspected malignancy were reduced to 10 (1.90%) such diagnoses (P<0.05), and 161 (30.61%) cases of non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) were reduced to 33 (6.27%) cases (P<0.05) after their division into specific subtypes. We also diagnosed eight (1.52%, P<0.05) cases of metastatic carcinoma of the lung that were difficult to diagnose by cytological smear alone. Six (3.73%) of 161 NSCLC cases exhibited ALK rearrangement.

CONCLUSIONS

CB and ICC are useful for accurate cytological diagnosis using CT-guided percutaneous lung FNA. These approaches are valuable for providing individualized treatment and prognostic evaluations with minor complications.

CT-guided transthoracic core needle biopsy for small pulmonary lesions: diagnostic performance and adequacy for molecular testing

BACKGROUND

Computed tomography (CT)-guided transthoracic needle biopsy is a well-established, minimally invasive diagnostic tool for pulmonary lesions. Few large studies have been conducted on the diagnostic performance and adequacy for molecular testing of transthoracic core needle biopsy (TCNB) for small pulmonary lesions.

METHODS

This study included CT-guided TCNB with 18-gauge cutting needles in 560 consecutive patients with small (≤3 cm) pulmonary lesions from January 2012 to January 2015. There were 323 males and 237 females, aged 51.8±12.7 years. The size of the pulmonary lesions was 1.8±0.6 cm. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and complications of the biopsies were investigated. The risk factors of diagnostic failure were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. The sample's adequacy for molecular testing of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was analyzed.

RESULTS

The overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for diagnosis of malignancy were 92.0% (311/338), 98.6% (219/222), and 94.6% (530/560), respectively. The incidence of bleeding complications was 22.9% (128/560), and the incidence of pneumothorax was 10.4% (58/560). Logistic multivariate regression analysis showed that the independent risk factors for diagnostic failure were a lesion size ≤1 cm [odds ratio (OR), 3.95; P=0.007], lower lobe lesions (OR, 2.83; P=0.001), and pneumothorax (OR, 1.98; P=0.004). Genetic analysis was successfully performed on 95.45% (168/176) of specimens diagnosed as NSCLC. At least 96.8% of samples with two or more passes from a lesion were sufficient for molecular testing.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnostic yield of small pulmonary lesions by CT-guided TCNB is high, and the procedure is relatively safe. A lesion size ≤1 cm, lower lobe lesions, and pneumothorax are independent risk factors for biopsy diagnostic failure. TCNB specimens could provide adequate tissues for molecular testing.