Nodular: Medical Definition, Examples & Synonyms

Nodular (adjective): Relating to, characterized by, or resembling nodules—small, solid, rounded swellings or lumps (typically <1 cm) in tissues or organs.

Clinical Context

• Nodules may be benign (e.g., thyroid colloid nodules, dermatofibromas) or malignant (e.g., lung cancer metastases, lymphoma)
• Imaging description: "nodular opacities," "nodular thickening"

Examples

• "Nodular thyroid disease" – enlarged gland with multiple nodules
• "Firm nodular lesion in breast on exam"
• "Multiple pulmonary nodules on CT, concerning for metastases"

Synonyms

Lumpy, knotty, tuberous, nodose.