lungcontained

Lungcontained is a descriptive term used in radiology and pulmonary pathology to describe thoracic lesions that are confined within the lung parenchyma, without direct extension to the pleural space, chest wall, or mediastinum. The term emphasizes an anatomic containment rather than a specific histologic classification, and it appears in case reports or reviews as a nonstandard descriptor rather than a formal diagnosis.

The concept has circulated in some radiology and pathology discussions to distinguish intraparenchymal processes that do not breach the lung surface from those that invade adjacent structures. It can apply to a range of etiologies, including benign nodules such as hamartomas, inflammatory granulomas from infections, cystic lesions, and certain well-demarcated primary lung neoplasms that remain encased within the lung without pleural contact.

Imaging features of a lesion described as lungcontained typically include sharp or smooth margins, absence of pleural effusion, and no radiographic signs of pleural or chest wall invasion. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are commonly used to assess containment, three-dimensional extent, and relation to surrounding structures. In some cases, positron emission tomography may aid in distinguishing inflammatory from neoplastic processes. Definitive diagnosis usually requires clinical correlation and, when indicated, tissue sampling through biopsy or surgical excision.

Management depends on the underlying cause. Benign or nonprogressive contained lesions may be observed with serial imaging, while infectious or inflammatory etiologies are treated accordingly. Malignant contained lesions often require oncologic assessment and may involve surgical resection, radiotherapy, or systemic therapy. The term is not universally adopted and may overlap with established descriptors such as intraparenchymal lesion or pleural invasion status.