Correlation between image characteristics and pathologic findings in non small cell lung cancer patients after anatomic resection.

INTRODUCTION:Tumor characteristics in computed tomography (CT) are correlated to pathologic presentation and survival. However, most studies have been based on thin slice thickness CT while lymph node metastatic pattern has remained unclear. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation between image characteristics under 5 mm slice thickness and pathology findings in non small lung cancer patients who have received curative resection. MATERIALS AND METHODS:From January 2010 to May 2014, 440 patients who underwent curative resection were included and medical records were reviewed retrospectively. The tumor size and consolidation tumor ratio were simultaneously evaluated and measured by a physician, a thoracic surgeon, and a radiologist. The correlation between image and pathology characteristics and its survival impact was analyzed. RESULTS:Tumor sizes, as measured by CT and by pathologic measurement were highly coincident. (p < 0.001) GGO predominant lesions were correlated to well-differentiated adenocarcinoma, (p< 0.001), and less tumor necrosis (p