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Lung nodules: Can they ever be non-cancerous?
I had RSV pneumonia in Nov. Recovered well. On Tuesday I went to ER for an ear infection. They did a chest x-ray then decided to do a CT scan. The results have me terrified. I have no SOB, no symptoms what-so-ever. The CT scan says suggestive of multifocal pneumonia, cannot rule out malignancy. What scares me is the irregulary-shaped nodules. Can they ever be non-cancerous? I have an appt with a pulminary dr. on March 6th, but in the meantime, I am driving myself crazy.
There are multiple bilateral irregularly-shaped lung nodules. Several lung nodules demonstrate central cavitary changes. Example nodule within the medial superior segment of the right lower lobe measures 3.1 x 2.6 cm with central cavitation. Additional 4 x 2.6 cm irregularly-shaped nodule is present within the anterior left upper lobe. This lesion is without cavitary changes. No pleural effusions. No pneumothorax. Heart size is normal. No pericardial effusion. There are shotty mediastinal and bilateral hilar lymph nodes, likely reactive. Liver density is decreased. There are bilateral simple appearing renal cysts.
Any input - good or bad - would be appreciated.
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@missholly
First, please take a deep breath and read on. Nodules and cavities after a bout of pneumonia are more likely than not from the infection.
No cause for alarm, but can this be right "I have an appt with a pulminary dr. on March 6th" -as in March 2025? Cavities, nodules and possible pneumonia shouldn't wait more than 7 months for a second look. I suggest an immediate call or trip to your primary doc to push for an earlier appointment to get an answer on this.
Unusual lung changes after pneumonia can last for months, even longer. The appearance of cavities and nodules together are usually "CT scan says suggestive of multifocal pneumonia..." This means it is possible the treatment for RSV did not fully cure the pneumonia or whatever bacteria is in your lungs - just knocked it down. And since November, is has been busy "setting up residence" deep in your lungs - in the dark, warm mucus down there.
The radiologist saying "cannot rule out malignancy" is their way of saying further diagnosis is needed. It is not meant to alarm your.
Have you been in touch with your primary provider since the ER visit? Have they seen the CT scan and report?
Please let me know what you find out.
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3 ReactionsA few things that can cause irregular shaped nodules are granuloma, hamartome, benign tumors, sarcoidosis, infections, and rheumatoid arthritis. It can take months for nodules caused by infections like pneumonia or RSV to resolve. Sometimes they never disappear.
The next step MIGHT be a referral for a CT or to see a pulmonologist.
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1 Reaction@missholly
Please re-read Sue's note.
Our mentors give such solid, reasoned and medically sound advice.
Trying not to be too "shocked and awed" is a real skill. But getting the right diagnosis can sometimes be a long road.
Getting a skilled specialist is key; and if that is correct, March of next year, then take action! I do think that is simply way to far away; both for your physical care and to bring calm to your soul.
Are you near (within afew hundred miles) of a Mayo Clinic? I do not live in the U.S , but you may... so avail yourself of this excellent source of care. Give a call and see what they suggest.
Let us know how you get on .
All the best to you.
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3 ReactionsThank you! I meant August 6th, not March. You made me feel so much better. I was thinking I had one foot in the grave. You have been very kind! My primary has seen the report, which is why she set up the appt with the pulmonary dr.
Thank you so much!!!! I'm in TN, so not near Mayo. My appt is August 6th, not March 6th. My brain is on overload today.
You've made me feel so much better. Thank you! I thought I had one foot in the grave. My pulmonary appt is August 6th, not March 6th. My brain isn't working too well - I'm in such a panic.
Thank you so very much! I was so scared when I read the statistics about irregular shaped nodules. You've made me feel much better!
Sending hope that one of these is truly the cause.
thank you!
@missholly
Oh thankfully! Good news!
Hope your appointment answers all your questions.
( that you will write down and take with you).