From the Research
No, the right major fissure and the perifissural right lower lobe are not the same. The right major fissure is an anatomical boundary that separates the right upper and middle lobes from the right lower lobe of the lung, as described in general anatomy 1. It is a double layer of visceral pleura that extends from the hilum to the lateral chest wall. The perifissural right lower lobe refers to the area adjacent to the fissure within the right lower lobe of the lung. This distinction is important in radiological interpretation, particularly when identifying nodules or lesions, as perifissural nodules are often benign lymph nodes that appear adjacent to the fissures, as seen in a study on perifissural nodules seen at CT screening for lung cancer 2. Understanding these anatomical relationships helps clinicians and radiologists accurately locate and characterize pulmonary findings, which can significantly impact diagnosis and treatment decisions for patients with lung pathologies. Some studies have discussed infections in lung cancer patients and the effects of treatments on the risk of infection, but these are not directly relevant to the anatomical distinction between the right major fissure and the perifissural right lower lobe 3, 4, 5. The key point is that the right major fissure and the perifissural right lower lobe are distinct anatomical entities, and recognizing this distinction is crucial for accurate radiological interpretation and patient care. In clinical practice, this distinction can help guide diagnosis and treatment decisions, ultimately impacting patient outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. For example, a study on perifissural nodules found that these nodules have a low malignancy potential, which can inform clinical decision-making and reduce unnecessary interventions 2. Overall, the anatomical distinction between the right major fissure and the perifissural right lower lobe is essential for providing high-quality patient care.