“Lobulated” refers to a structure or mass that is divided into rounded or lobe-like sections, often giving it a “lobed” appearance. Lobulation refers to the process or condition of being lobulated, where a shape or object is formed by or has distinct lobes.
Etymology:
The term “lobulated” is derived from “lobus” (Latin for lobe), which refers to a rounded or segmented part. “Lobulation” comes from “lobus” as well, indicating the state of being divided into lobes.
AKA:
Lobulated mass: Often used in imaging to describe masses or lesions that appear divided into lobes or rounded sections.
Multilobular: A synonym often used to describe structures that have multiple lobes.
TCV adjectives it applies to:
Shape: Lobulated describes the physical shape of a mass, organ, or structure that exhibits a lobed or segmented form.
Character: It refers to the characteristic appearance of an object or structure that appears subdivided into lobes.
Modality:
Lobulated shapes are commonly observed in CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound, particularly when identifying masses, tumors, or organs with segmented structures.
What does it imply:
Normal: Lobulation can be a normal anatomical feature, such as in organs like the liver, lungs, or kidneys.
Abnormal: A lobulated shape may indicate pathology, such as:
Neoplasms: Benign or malignant tumors can have a lobulated appearance.
Cysts or abscesses: Certain cystic lesions may appear lobulated.
Fibrosis: Can lead to lobulated patterns in the affected tissues, such as in the lungs or liver.
Next step:
Imaging evaluation:
Further evaluation with CT or MRI can help differentiate between benign and malignant lobulated masses.
Biopsy may be required to determine the exact nature of a lobulated mass, especially when malignancy is suspected.
