Incremental benefit of maximum-intensity-projection images on observer detection of small pulmonary nodules revealed by multidetector CT.
OBJECTIVE
Our purpose was to assess the incremental effect of maximum-intensity-projection (MIP) image processing on the ability of various observers to detect small (<1 cm in diameter) central and peripheral lung nodules revealed by multidetector CT.


METHODS
We retrospectively identified 25 patients with metastatic disease, each having from two to nine nodules that were 3-9 mm in diameter. Two senior and three junior reviewers interpreted all images on a workstation. The observers first reviewed axial images (3.75-mm collimation, 3-mm reconstruction interval, multidetector acquisition) in cine and sequential fashion and recorded the size, lobe, and central or peripheral (within 1 cm of the edge of lung) location of each nodule. MIP images (10-mm slab, 8-mm interval) were then reviewed, and additional nodules detected were recorded. Final counts were established by consensus.


RESULTS
The reviewers found 122 nodules (71 peripheral, 51 central) in the 25 patients. The addition of MIP slabs significantly enhanced reviewer detection of central nodules (p < 0.001) and junior reviewer detection of peripheral nodules (p < 0.001). MIP slabs also reduced the effects of reviewer experience, particularly for peripheral nodules.


CONCLUSIONS
MIP processing reduces the number of overlooked small nodules, particularly in the central lung. Observer nodule detection remains imperfect even when lesions are clearly depicted on images.
Gruden
James F
JF
Division of Cardiothoracic Imaging, Image Processing Laboratory, Emory University Hospital and Clinic, 1324 Clifton Road N.E., Ste. E-118, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Ouanounou
Serge
S
Tigges
Stefan
S
Norris
Shannon D
SD
Klausner
Todd S
TS
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015588:Observer Variation; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D003074:Solitary Pulmonary Nodule / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed