Differential Diagnosis for Calcified Nodular Lung Nodule
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Granuloma: This is the most common cause of a calcified lung nodule, often resulting from healed infections such as histoplasmosis or tuberculosis. The presence of calcification within the nodule is a strong indicator of a benign process, with granulomas being the most frequent.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Hamartoma: A benign lung tumor that can contain calcifications, fat, and cartilage. While not as common as granulomas, hamartomas are a well-recognized cause of calcified lung nodules.
- Calcified Metastasis: Although less common, some metastatic lesions to the lung can calcify over time. This would be more likely in the context of a known primary malignancy with a propensity for lung metastases.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Carcinoid Tumor: While typically presenting as a well-defined, non-calcified nodule, a small percentage of carcinoid tumors can show calcification. Given their potential for malignancy, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis.
- Primary Lung Cancer with Calcification: Although most lung cancers do not present with calcification, there are exceptions. Missing a diagnosis of lung cancer could have significant implications for patient outcomes.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): These vascular anomalies can occasionally present as calcified nodules, especially if there are phleboliths (calcified thrombi) within the malformation.
- Lymphoma: Rarely, lymphoma can manifest as a calcified lung nodule, particularly in the context of treated disease where calcification may represent a response to therapy.
- Sarcoidosis: While more commonly associated with hilar lymphadenopathy and non-calcified nodules, sarcoidosis can occasionally present with calcified lung nodules in its chronic form.