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Incidental pulmonary nodule — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareIncidental pulmonary noduleUSMLE Step 3

A 61-year-old former smoker has a 5-mm solid pulmonary nodule found incidentally on CT obtained after a minor motor vehicle collision. He quit smoking 12 years ago after a 25 pack-year history. He has no hemoptysis, weight loss, or prior cancer. Which of the following is the most appropriate at this time?

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Correct answer: E — Arrange interval chest CT surveillance

Small solid pulmonary nodules are managed by risk-based CT surveillance rather than immediate invasive treatment.

Reference: Fleischner Society pulmonary nodule guidance: https://pubs.rsna.org/