Adding predictive and diagnostic values of pulmonary ground-glass nodules on lung cancer via novel non-invasive tests

Abstract

Pulmonary ground-glass nodules (GGNs) are highly associated with lung cancer. Extensive studies using thin-section high-resolution CT images have been conducted to analyze characteristics of different types of GGNs in order to evaluate and determine the predictive and diagnostic values of GGNs on lung cancer. Accurate prediction of their malignancy and invasiveness is critical for developing individualized therapies and follow-up strategies for a better clinical outcome. Through reviewing the recent 5-year research on the association between pulmonary GGNs and lung cancer, we focused on the radiologic and pathological characteristics of different types of GGNs, pointed out the risk factors associated with malignancy, discussed recent genetic analysis and biomarker studies (including autoantibodies, cell-free miRNAs, cell-free DNA, and DNA methylation) for developing novel diagnostic tools. Based on current progress in this research area, we summarized a process from screening, diagnosis to follow-up of GGNs.

DNA‐Guided Extracellular‐Vesicle Metallization with High Catalytic Activity for Accurate Diagnosis of Pulmonary Nodules

“…Blood‐based assay is an attractive diagnostic method for pulmonary nodules management due to its minimally invasive and repeatable sampling. [ 8 ] For example, protein biomarkers including carcinoembryonic antigen, cancer antigen 125, cytokeratin‐19‐fragment, neuron‐specific enolase, and squamous cell carcinoma antigen are usually used for screening lung cancer patients. However, these biomarkers cannot be detected in a proportion of patients with early‐stage lung cancers, not to mention those with malignant nodules.…”