Inconclusive PET; biopsy question

Posted by grandpop1949 @grandpop1949, Mar 22 12:13pm

2.3 cm nodule SUV 2.4) in right upper lung; cervical lymph node with hyper metabolic activity with max SUV 3.3. What type biopsy is recommended?

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Im thinking they may just want to remove them both (surgery). I had Left upper lung nodule and they did a Bronchoscopy first. But they took some chest lymph nodes. Then they suggested surgery. They didn’t biopsy it until they took the nodule out. I hope you are doing okay.

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Hello @grandpop1949 , Welcome to Mayo Connect. The size of the nodule and lymph node activity certainly warrants further investigation. The uptake numbers aren’t off the charts so no need to panic yet, but I know it’s easy to say that, and more difficult to actually do. Needle Biopsy of lymph fluid is generally easier than nodules, simply because of the location. Lung nodules can be accessed through different types of biopsy depending on the location or the nodule. Some hospitals offer robotic bronchoscopy that can access nodules deep in the lung. I’ve had needle biopsies, EBUS (which is ultrasound guided), and robotic. I have them all covered, ha, lucky me!
What has your doctor recommended? Are you seeing a pulmonologist at this point?

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Echoing everything Lisa said. Ultimately, it will be the pulmonologist's decision.

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@cmcguire10

Im thinking they may just want to remove them both (surgery). I had Left upper lung nodule and they did a Bronchoscopy first. But they took some chest lymph nodes. Then they suggested surgery. They didn’t biopsy it until they took the nodule out. I hope you are doing okay.

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My husband had CT guided biopsy of tumor by interventional radiologist. His thoracic surgeon did biopsy of upper lymph nodes just before Lobectomy. Then biopsy of lymph node from removed lobe.

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I had a needle biopsy of 1.0 nodule and it was cancer. I have learned to be aggressive! 🙏🏻

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Hi @grandpop1949, Have you received any additional information on your next steps?

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what is the best treatment for Isolated spiculated right upper lobe 16 x 21 mm mass-pulmonary?

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The best treatment will be determined by your Pulmonologist. Have you seen one yet? Mine in my upper left lobe was starting to spiculate and there was no hesitation for surgery to remove it. I believe spiculated means it is at the stage it can start spreading. Not meaning to scare you but Make sure you talk with a pulmonologist and he will know.

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@pazart

what is the best treatment for Isolated spiculated right upper lobe 16 x 21 mm mass-pulmonary?

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Welcome to Mayo Connect @pazart. Depending on the doctors involved in the case,
-they may want a PET scan to determine if the mass is isolated to the lung,
-they may want a biopsy to determine the cellular makeup of the mass,
-they may want to surgically remove the mass,
-or they may come up with some other creative first steps.
The size and spiculated nature are indicating that some action is needed. That being said, if you or the patient are stable and not in an emergency/inpatient situation, you have time to take a slight pause and assess what steps make the most sense. Every patient is different considering overall health, preexisting conditions, age, tolerance for treatments, etc.
These situations are stressful and overwhelming. Are you the patient? Do you have upcoming appointments scheduled, and with which type of doctors?

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@lls8000

Welcome to Mayo Connect @pazart. Depending on the doctors involved in the case,
-they may want a PET scan to determine if the mass is isolated to the lung,
-they may want a biopsy to determine the cellular makeup of the mass,
-they may want to surgically remove the mass,
-or they may come up with some other creative first steps.
The size and spiculated nature are indicating that some action is needed. That being said, if you or the patient are stable and not in an emergency/inpatient situation, you have time to take a slight pause and assess what steps make the most sense. Every patient is different considering overall health, preexisting conditions, age, tolerance for treatments, etc.
These situations are stressful and overwhelming. Are you the patient? Do you have upcoming appointments scheduled, and with which type of doctors?

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Thank you Lisa. I am seeing a Pulmonologist on Friday, and, will be having a PET scan, hopefully soon.
Yes, I am the patient.

Mark

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