Molecular Testing In The Management Of Pulmonary Nodules

Plasma-based proteomic screening and gene expression profiling of bronchial brushing are molecular tests available in the diagnostic workup of pulmonary nodules. To rule out malignancy, invasive diagnostic procedures such as computed tomography-guided biopsies, bronchoscopies, or video-assisted thoracoscopic procedures are often required, but each carry procedure-related complications ranging from postprocedure pain to pneumothorax. Molecular diagnostic tests have been proposed to aid in risk-stratifying patients to eliminate or necessitate the need for subsequent invasive diagnostic procedures.