On a scan report
Lesion
Also written as Lesions, Focal lesion, Lytic lesion, Space occupying lesion, SOL
What it means
A lesion is an area of abnormal or damaged tissue caused by injury, infection or disease. It can be anywhere in the body. A lesion may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).
Why it matters
The word lesion alone does not mean cancer. Your doctor decides if more tests are needed to find out what it is.
Ask your oncologist
"What do you think this lesion is, and what test will tell us for sure?"
From NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: lesion. Not medical advice: your oncologist decides.