To systematically describe the CT imaging features of pulmonary SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated carcinoma and summarize coexisting imaging findings that may assist in radiologic suspicion.
Key Findings:
Tumors typically appeared as solid masses with a median maximum diameter of 3.7 cm.
Aggressive imaging features included spiculated margins (93.3%), intratumoral necrosis (86.7%), and cavitation (46.7%).
Invasion of adjacent structures was common, with bronchial (86.7%) and vascular invasion (80.0%).
Lymph node metastases were present in 86.7% of cases, often as conglomerated lymphadenopathy (73.3%).
Interpretation:
The CT imaging profile of pulmonary SMARCA4-deficient undifferentiated carcinoma is characterized by aggressive features that may help differentiate it from other thoracic malignancies.
Limitations:
Small sample size of 15 patients limits generalizability.
Retrospective design may introduce selection bias.
Conclusion:
The study identifies a reproducible aggressive CT imaging profile for this carcinoma, which may aid in earlier diagnosis and targeted immunohistochemical confirmation.
