What is a lung nodule?
A lung nodule or nodules is a small abnormality seen on a chest x-ray or CAT scan of the chest which is usually less than one centimeter in size. Frequently, it is found incidentally when imaging is done for some other reason and usually it does not produce any symptoms.
What causes lung nodules?
Lung nodules may be old scar tissue, or may be due to tumors or cancer, infection, or inflammation. If the nodule has been present for years and has not changed it is likely a scar. If it is new, then how it is managed depends on the size. If it is large enough to biopsy, a biopsy will usually reveal what the nodule is from. Biopsies can be performed by bronchoscopy (camera in the lungs when you are asleep), needle biopsies with CAT scan guidance and numbing medications, or surgical removal. If the nodule is too small to biopsy, further imaging may be done to look for growth or activity by CAT scan or PET scan.
What does it mean if my lung nodule is cancer?
If a lung nodule turns out to be cancer, usually you will need to have surgery to remove it. If no other cancer is found, you may not require further treatment. If further evidence of cancer is found, you may need to have radiation or chemotherapy.
What diseases other than cancer can cause lung nodules?
The common non-cancerous causes of lung nodules include infection and inflammation. The most common infection causing lung nodules is mycobacterium avium intracellulare, or MAI. This can cause either an acute or chronic infection and multiple lung nodules. It is often treated with multiple medications for months of therapy. Another common cause of lung nodule is sarcoidosis. This may or may not require treatment. The evaluation and treatment of sarcoidosis is discussed earlier in this book. Finally, the third common cause of lung nodules is rheumatoid arthritis. These nodules may need further evaluation if concomitant tuberculosis is suspected.
Self-Check for Management of Lung Nodules
- I have stopped smoking.
- I make sure that I get a copy of all my imaging reports and read and understand the report with my doctor.
- If I am recommended to have a test done, I understand the risks and benefits of the testing and make sure that I receive the results of the test.
- If I am found to have a lung nodule, I will compare my current studies to any previous imaging studies that I have had to determine if it is stable or growing.
- I understand that the only way to really know what is causing a lung nodule is to have it biopsied or removed.
Managing Doctors
- Primary Care
- Pulmonary
- Oncology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
- Pathology