Indeterminate pulmonary nodules (IPNs) are well-defined, non-calcified nodules in the lung less than three centimeters in size that are completely surrounded by lung parenchyma. The primary goal in the evaluation of IPNs is to rule out malignancy. A recent study estimated that more than 1.5 million Americans have an IPN identified on a chest computed tomography scan each year outside of lung cancer screening programs. This article examines the pattern and cost of IPN workup in real-world practice using insurer administrative claims for commercially insured individuals.
This article was published by the Journal of Health Economics and Outcomes Research (free registration is required).