Connect
← Return to Is a Spiculated lung nodule always malignant?
Discussion
Is a Spiculated lung nodule always malignant?
Lung Health | Last Active: Nov 7 12:13pm | Replies (129)Comment receiving replies
I was also not informed about the fact that one of my nodules is spiculated. It was only when I requested my report papers that I discovered one of them was described as such. Everything I've read so far indicates that spiculated nodules are considered a sure sign, so I'm confused as to why some still want to adopt a watch-and-wait approach. It seems they always want the nodule to be at least 1cm to be proactive, but this approach carries the risk of tumor spread. I don't understand why they take that risk. In my case, it's a solid nodule, which is known to be much more prone to spreading even at such small sizes compared to groundglass or semisolid nodules.
Replies to "I was also not informed about the fact that one of my nodules is spiculated. It..."
@darwin66 , I'm not sure that I would be comfortable with a long wait-and-see period. Each patient's tolerance for risk is different. I tend to be more analytical and want data and facts. Have you been able to have a PET scan to see how much uptake there might be to the nodule? Are you able to access second opinion?
Connect
I am confused as well. I was under the impression that the earlier its found, the better your chances of beating it. My CT from Sept: IMPRESSION:
1. Dominant nodule within the medial aspect of the superior segment of the right lower lobe measures 2.8 x 1.8 x 2.2 cm. Subpleural nodule within the lateral right lower lobe measures 16 x 8 x 13 mm. Neoplasm cannot be excluded.
PET SCAN: 1. Right lower lobe pulmonary nodule with a small cavitation shows a focal moderate/intense uptake of 8.2 SUV. Also pleural-based density in the right lateral lower lobe demonstrate moderate focal uptake of 4.8 SUV. Findings are concerning for malignant/metastatic disease.
With that... they still said "lets do another CT in a few months." When I saw my pulmonologist in January, he brought in his boss and she is the one who said the dominant one is spiculated. I havent seen that word in my results. The size of the nodules and the SUV uptake numbers have had me concerned. As well as the fact that everything under the sun has been ruled out. I have a rib that is in almost constant pain (from front to back), I cough all the time, very short of breathe, Ive lost 40 pounds and Im extremely tired all the time. Matter of fact, Im on 2 liters of O2 due to my levels dropping down to 82 during a 6 min walk test, twice now. Its crazy!!! There is something in MY lung that shouldnt be there and no matter how hard he has tried, it simply cannot be blamed on inflammation or infection. I dont understand with all those symptoms, why a doctor would WANT to wait.