Guidelines for the management of pulmonary nodules detected by low-dose CT lung cancer screening 6th edition: compiled by the Japanese Society of CT Screening

Jpn J Radiol. 2025 Mar;43(3):333-346. doi: 10.1007/s11604-024-01695-0. Epub 2024 Dec 5.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this special report is to describe the 6th edition of "The Guidelines for the Management of Pulmonary Nodules Detected by Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening ".

Methods: Since the 5th edition six years ago, a review of the literature and consideration of consistency with new evidence led to the revision of the 6th edition.

Results: The main revisions in the 6th edition can be summarized as follows: 1) addition of the section "Recommendations for Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening in Japan"; 2) change in the recommended solid component diameter, and follow-up interval for nodules with a total mean diameter of less than 15 mm and a solid component diameter of less than 8 mm; 3) replacement of the recommended case images; and 4) introduction of the criteria of the Accreditation Council for Lung Cancer CT Screening.

Conclusion: This guideline is gradually gaining acceptance in Japan. This guideline should be applied carefully in clinical practice, considering various factors such as the patient's condition.

Keywords: guideline; low-dose CT screening; lung cancer; puimonary nodule; thin-section CT.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline

MeSH terms

  • Early Detection of Cancer* / methods
  • East Asian People
  • Humans
  • Japan
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging
  • Lung Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Multiple Pulmonary Nodules* / diagnostic imaging
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Societies, Medical
  • Solitary Pulmonary Nodule* / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed* / methods

Supplementary concepts

  • Japanese people