Our Summary

This research paper investigates the chance of obtaining a false-negative result from a specific type of lung biopsy procedure known as a CT-guided transthoracic lung core-needle biopsy. A false-negative result is when a test incorrectly indicates that a disease, such as cancer, is not present.

The researchers looked at the medical data of 403 patients who underwent this type of lung biopsy. They divided the patients into two groups: those who truly did not have cancer (true-negative group) and those who were incorrectly identified as not having cancer (false-negative group).

They found that out of the 403 cases they analyzed, 332 were correctly identified as benign (not cancerous) and 71 were actually cancerous, leading to a false-negative rate of 17.6%. The study identified three main risk factors that made it more likely for a patient to get a false-negative result: being older in age, having a symptom known as the burr sign, and having a symptom known as the pleural traction sign.

The burr sign and the pleural traction sign are visual indications seen on a CT scan that could suggest the presence of lung disease.

In conclusion, while this lung biopsy method is generally accurate and has a low rate of false-negative results, older patients and those exhibiting the burr sign or pleural traction sign should be closely monitored, as they are at a higher risk for false-negative results.

FAQs

  1. What is the significance of the burr sign and the pleural traction sign in relation to false-negative results in lung biopsies?
  2. What is the false-negative rate for CT-guided transthoracic lung core-needle biopsy according to the study?
  3. What are the identified independent risk factors for false-negative results in a lung biopsy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung biopsy is to understand that there is a small risk of false-negative results, especially in older patients and if certain imaging features like the burr sign or pleural traction sign are present. It is important to discuss these factors with your healthcare provider and to follow up closely after the biopsy to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for lung biopsy include those with suspicious lung nodules or masses seen on imaging studies such as chest X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans. These patients may have symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood. Patients with a history of smoking, exposure to asbestos or other environmental toxins, or a family history of lung cancer may also be recommended for lung biopsy. Additionally, patients with known or suspected lung cancer, lung infections, or autoimmune diseases affecting the lungs may also undergo lung biopsy for further evaluation and diagnosis.

Timeline

Before lung biopsy:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms such as cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
  2. Imaging studies, such as chest X-ray or CT scan, are performed to identify the suspicious lesion.
  3. Consultation with a pulmonologist or interventional radiologist to discuss the need for a lung biopsy.
  4. Pre-operative assessment to evaluate the patient’s overall health and suitability for the procedure.

After lung biopsy:

  1. Patient undergoes a CT-guided transthoracic lung core-needle biopsy procedure.
  2. Pathological analysis of the biopsy sample to determine the nature of the lesion.
  3. Follow-up consultation with the treating physician to discuss the biopsy results.
  4. Treatment plan is formulated based on the biopsy results, which may include further imaging studies, surgery, or other interventions.
  5. Monitoring for any potential complications or adverse events related to the biopsy procedure.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the likelihood of a false-negative result on a CT-guided transthoracic lung core-needle biopsy?
  2. Are there any specific risk factors that may increase the chances of a false-negative result?
  3. How accurate is this type of biopsy in diagnosing lung conditions?
  4. What signs or symptoms should I be aware of that could indicate a potential false-negative result?
  5. How will the biopsy results be communicated to me, and how soon can I expect to receive them?
  6. What are the potential next steps if a false-negative result is obtained?
  7. Are there any alternative diagnostic tests or procedures that may provide more accurate results?
  8. What precautions should I take before and after the biopsy procedure to minimize the risk of a false-negative result?
  9. How experienced is the medical team in performing CT-guided transthoracic lung core-needle biopsies?
  10. Are there any potential complications or risks associated with this type of biopsy that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Sun D, Yao T, Wang L, Ma S, Gao M, Li J, Li C, Xu L. Journal: J Cancer Res Ther. 2023 Feb;19(1):86-91. doi: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_2054_22. PMID: 37006047