Fig. 6: Proposed strategy of pulmonary nodule classification combined with CT screening.

Pulmonary nodules are evaluated by low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) with imaging features suggestive of benign or malignant causes. The outcome of indeterminate nodules may lead to frequent follow-ups, unnecessary interventions and overtreatment. Incorporating a serum metabolic classifier with diagnostic value potentially enhances the risk assessment and improves the subsequent management of pulmonary nodules. PET positron emission tomography.