Lung Nodules: When Should We Suspect Cancer ?

This session provides a structured overview of lung nodules and when malignancy should be suspected.

The lecture focuses on the clinical importance of pulmonary nodules, most of which are incidentally detected. Key risk factors for malignancy such as advanced age, smoking history, prior cancer, exposure history, nodule size, growth pattern, and suspicious radiologic features are reviewed.

Diagnostic approaches are discussed with emphasis on chest CT as the primary tool for detection and characterization. Risk stratification systems and guideline-based follow-up strategies (e.g., Fleischner criteria) are highlighted. The role of PET-CT and tissue sampling via biopsy is introduced for higher-risk nodules.

Management strategies include radiological surveillance for low-risk nodules and surgical or oncologic evaluation for suspicious lesions, with emphasis on multidisciplinary decision-making.

Following the lecture, a Kahoot quiz was held to reinforce key concepts, prizes were awarded to top-performing students, and the session concluded with an interactive Q&A.