Computer-aided diagnosis and volumetry of pulmonary nodules: Current concepts and future perspectives

For computer-aided detection (CAD) and volumetry of small pulmonary nodules, a number of algorithms have been developed for multislice CT data sets in recent years, with the goal of improving the diagnostic work-up and the follow-up of findings. Recent data show that the detection of small lesions may improve with CAD, suggesting that especially experienced readers may benefit from using CAD systems. This has lead to the recommendation of CAD as a replacement of the second reader in clinical practice. Furthermore, computer-aided volumetry of pulmonary nodules allows a precise determination of nodular growth rates as a prerequisite for a better classification of nodules as benign or malignant. In this article, we review recent developments of CAD and volumetry tools for pulmonary nodules, and address open questions regarding the use of these software tools in clinical routine.