Expert consensus
Kang Chengxin, Fu Binjie, Lü Fajin, Li Zhenli, Yu Jianming, Lei Ziqiao, Fu haihong, Ma Xinwu, Zhao Yanming, Liu Jie, Zhou Gaofeng, Niu Yantao, Kang Zhuang, Bao Yunfeng, Lu Qing, Yin Jiandong
Objective To propose a standardized low-dose computed tomography(LDCT) protocol for lung cancer screening,and to provide guidance for rational and standardized application of LDCT for the detection and diagnosis of pulmonary nodules. Methods The experts from the Chinese Society of Imaging Technology participated in the formulation of technical specifications for LDCT lung cancer screening. This consensus was based on recent advances on LDCT lung cancer screening at home and abroad and the epidemiology of lung cancer in China,covering the applicable scope,scanning parameters,range of radiation dose,and image quality control standards. Results This consensus specifies that the effective dose of LDCT for lung cancer screening should be less than or equal to 1 mSv. According to the body mass index(BMI) of examinees,for small BMI(<18.5 kg/m2),medium BMI(18.5-24.9 kg/m2),and large BMI(≥25 kg/m2),the recommended tube voltages are ≤100 kV,100~120 kV,and 120 kV,respectively,and the recommended tube currents are 20 mAs,30 mAs,and 30 mAs,respectively. The reconstruction kernel is recommended to be standard or medium. Using the vertebral spinous processes as landmarks,the scanning range should be from the upper edge of the T1 spinous process to the lower edge of the T12 spinous process for examinees with BMI ≥21 kg/m2 and from the upper edge of the T1 spinous process to the lower edge of the L1 spinous process for those with BMI <21 kg/m2. Scanning should be performed using the breath-hold technique at the end of deep inspiration. The recommended image post-processing methods include multi-planar reconstruction,10-mm maximum intensity projection,3 mm minimum intensity projection,and multi-slice volume reconstruction. Conclusion This expert consensus on the whole process of LDCT for lung cancer screening can facilitate homogeneous scanning across different medical institutions,improving the mutual recognition of imaging results.