Guidelines for the management of pulmonary nodules detected by low-dose CT lung cancer screening 6th edition: compiled by the Japanese Society of CT Screening

Abstract Objective The aim of this special report is to describe the 6th edition of “The Guidelines for the Management of Pulmonary Nodules Detected by Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening “. Methods Since the 5th edition six years ago, a review of the literature and consideration of consistency with new evidence led to the revision of the 6th edition. Results The main revisions in the 6th edition can be summarized as follows: 1) addition of the section “Recommendations for Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening in Japan”; 2) change in the recommended solid component diameter, and follow-up interval for nodules with a total mean diameter of less than 15 mm and a solid component diameter of less than 8 mm; 3) replacement of the recommended case images; and 4) introduction of the criteria of the Lung Cancer CT Screening Certification Organization. Conclusion This guideline is gradually gaining acceptance in Japa. This guideline should be applied carefully in clinical practice, considering various factors such as the patient’s condition.