Multiple inflammatory nodules: a differential diagnosis of new pulmonary nodules in oncology patients.

Abstract

New pulmonary nodules in an oncology patient are often considered metastatic unless proven otherwise. However, the possibility of an inflammatory cause needs to be considered in this setting. Clinicopathologic correlation is always needed in such cases to establish a diagnosis, especially before initiating a new treatment. The multiplicity of inflammatory nodules in this case, in the form of multiple pulmonary nodules and a spinal soft tissue mass, can be a considerable diagnostic challenge. The potential ramifications of not being familiar with inflammatory pseudotumors and not knowing when to suggest it involve unnecessary and incorrect patient treatment including chemotherapy, and may have medicolegal implications for the radiologist. Therefore all radiologists, especially those involved in oncologic imaging, need to be aware of this entity.