What tests can confirm the diagnosis of pulmonary focal lesions?

Feb 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

Chest X-ray examination, chest computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), complete blood count (CBC) test, bronchoscopic biopsy, and other examinations can confirm the presence of pulmonary focal opacities. X-rays passing through the chest are absorbed to varying degrees by tissues of different densities, creating images of varying black-and-white intensity on film or digital imaging plates, allowing initial observation of abnormalities in the lungs such as focal opacities.

Generally, pulmonary focal lesions can be diagnosed through chest X-ray, chest computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), complete blood count (CBC), bronchoscopy with biopsy, and other related examinations. Details are as follows:

1. Chest X-ray: By passing X-rays through the chest, tissues of varying densities absorb X-rays to different degrees, forming images of varying brightness on film or digital imaging plates. This allows initial observation of any abnormality such as focal lesions in the lungs.

2. Chest Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A chest CT scan provides more detailed images of the lungs than a standard X-ray and is more sensitive and accurate. Through CT scanning, doctors can more clearly observe the shape, size, and location of pulmonary focal lesions.

3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Although MRI is less commonly used in diagnosing lung diseases, it can still provide useful information regarding pulmonary focal lesions in certain situations. MRI can generate high-resolution images of the lungs, helping doctors more accurately determine the nature of focal lesions.

4. Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC helps assess indicators such as white blood cell count and neutrophil percentage, assisting in determining whether an infection or inflammatory response is present. This plays an important role in diagnosing pulmonary focal lesions caused by infections.

5. Bronchoscopy with Biopsy: To more accurately determine the nature of pulmonary focal lesions, bronchoscopy with biopsy may be required. During bronchoscopy, doctors can directly visualize the lung lesions and collect tissue samples for pathological examination. Histopathological analysis is the gold standard for confirming the nature of pulmonary focal lesions.

Not all of these tests are necessarily required. The specific choice depends on the patient's individual condition and the doctor's recommendation. Additionally, confirming the diagnosis of pulmonary focal lesions requires comprehensive evaluation combining the patient's clinical symptoms, medical history, and results from other auxiliary examinations.

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