Computer-Aided Differential Diagnosis of the Pulmonary Nodule: Towards an Understanding of the Medical Imaging Basics and Experiences in the Field

Abstract

Abstract In this article, the modern concepts of computer-aided diagnosis (CAD), the methods of pulmonary nodule detection, and facts derived from the literature on the pulmonary nodule differential CAD are compiled in one source and described in some detail. Several issues in lung cancer (LC) epidemiology and early diagnosis are discussed. Analysis of research done so far shows evidence that various CAD systems can be successfully applied to chest radiographs, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET). These modalities can serve as useful potential alternative tools available to practicing medical professionals performing routine diagnostics.