Abstract
Solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) are commonly encountered with the increasing use of computed tomography (CT). As these nodules can be malignant, both clinical and radiological features are used to help distinguish benign from malignant SPN. Frequently, the etiology of the SPN remains indeterminate and further work-up is required. This includes observation with periodic CT examinations, positron emission tomography scan and tissue diagnosis by percutaneous needle aspiration, core biopsy or surgical procedures like video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery or thoracotomy. Selection of which approach to follow depends on the pre-test likelihood of malignancy, the presence of patient's comorbidities that may preclude surgery and patient's preferences. Accurate characterization should help in early detection of malignant SPN and in avoiding unnecessary resection of benign nodules. Best management of SPN can be achieved by a multidisciplinary team approach including radiologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons and oncologists.