In elastography, which statement best describes benign nodules?

In elastography, which statement best describes benign nodules?

• A. Benign nodules are stiffer
• B. Benign nodules are softer
• C. Benign nodules have calcifications
• D. Elastography cannot assess stiffness

Answer: (B)

Elastography measures how easily tissue deforms under stress, so softer tissues deform more and appear as less stiff, while stiffer tissues resist deformation. Malignant nodules tend to be stiffer because cancerous tissue often has increased cellularity and fibrosis, whereas benign nodules usually have a less rigid, more compliant structure. Therefore, describing benign nodules as softer aligns with how elastography characterizes tissue stiffness. Keep in mind that calcifications or other factors can locally affect stiffness, and elastography is an adjunct to conventional ultrasound, not a standalone diagnosis.

Elastography measures how easily tissue deforms under stress, so softer tissues deform more and appear as less stiff, while stiffer tissues resist deformation. Malignant nodules tend to be stiffer because cancerous tissue often has increased cellularity and fibrosis, whereas benign nodules usually have a less rigid, more compliant structure. Therefore, describing benign nodules as softer aligns with how elastography characterizes tissue stiffness. Keep in mind that calcifications or other factors can locally affect stiffness, and elastography is an adjunct to conventional ultrasound, not a standalone diagnosis.