ground-glass opacity
A radiological finding of hazy lung opacification that may indicate early-stage lung adenocarcinoma or inflammatory conditions.
Full Definition
Ground-glass opacity (GGO) appears on computed tomography as areas of slightly increased attenuation that do not obscure underlying bronchial and vascular markings. In thoracic oncology, persistent ground-glass opacities are often associated with adenocarcinoma in situ or minimally invasive adenocarcinoma, particularly those with lepidic growth patterns. The presence, size, and characteristics of ground-glass components are important factors in lung cancer screening protocols and surgical planning. Mixed ground-glass nodules (part-solid nodules) containing both ground-glass and solid components often represent invasive adenocarcinomas and require careful multidisciplinary evaluation.
Usage
Usage note: Should be hyphenated as compound adjective; distinguish from other parenchymal patterns.
In Context
- "The 15mm ground-glass opacity in the right upper lobe showed interval growth on follow-up imaging." — Radiology report
- "Part-solid nodules with ground-glass components require different management than pure solid lesions." — Clinical guideline