Incidental osseous lesions on chest CT: an algorithmic approach for radiologists

Numerous osseous findings are commonly discovered incidentally at chest CTs in daily practice. A broad spectrum of these findings ranges from benign and do not touch lesions to ominous conditions requiring further imaging evaluation and/or intervention. Interpretation of these incidental musculoskeletal findings may constitute a diagnostic challenge to radiologists. This review provides a systematic, algorithmic approach to common osseous lesions on chest CT based on imaging findings with recommendations for proper next step management. •Describe common osseous lesions encountered in daily practice at chest CT.•Familiarity with a systematic, algorithmic approach to osseous lesions on chest CT•List worrisome imaging features that require further evaluations for each type of lesions•Identify the correct management strategy and the best imaging modality as the next step