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Multiple lung nodules: Might they be noncancerous? What next?
Lung Cancer | Last Active: Sep 12, 2023 | Replies (174)Comment receiving replies
I hope I’m in the correct area to ask this question..during a recent CT scan a 13mm nodule on my lung was found. I’ve had two close family members die of lung cancer. My family physician wants to take a watch and see approach but everything I read says “over 10mm should have PET scan or biopsied”. And that if it is malignant it can grow fast during the “watch and see” time frame. I’m curious if I have legitimate concerns??
My information at this point has only come from doctors, who see many benign cases a day, and insurance companies. The nurses and doctors at this point have all treated it like it’s not a big deal and pushed me off.
I’d really appreciate any advice. Thank you for reading. 😊
Replies to "I hope I’m in the correct area to ask this question..during a recent CT scan a..."
Your concern is understandable. My mother died at age 58 from lung cancer and my cousin on my mother's side at 54 of the same. You mentioned "My family physician wants to take a watch and see approach". Is that a Family Medicine or Internal Medicine doctor? If so, and your insurance allows you, seek out a Specialist (Pulmonologist). Check their background and look for one that treats lung nodules and/or lung cancer because not all of them do. Have you read the radiologist's report? Those reports can contain recommendations on follow up. I had an abnormal chest x-ray at urgent care and the report recommended a CT scan. I made an appointment directly with Pulmonologist and skipped my primary care provider- the CT scan report recommended PET scan. I did have lung cancer. My only symptom was recent shortness of breath which could also be attributed to a heart issue. I always look for a specialist for specific health issues. Medicine is a large subject, and it is important to see the knowledgeable experienced doctor with the right training.
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Welcome, @aahlrichs. I can understand that you're concerned. Being told that you have a 13mm lung nodule is worrisome and you have a family experience with lung cancer. Most lung nodules (95%) aren't cancerous. Read more here: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lung-cancer/expert-answers/lung-nodules/faq-20058445
I moved your question to this existing discussion where @felix536 was asking similar questions as you are today:
- Multiple lung nodules: Might they be noncancerous? What next? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/multiple-lung-nodules/
I did this so you can read the previous helpful posts and connect easily with other members like @merpreb @sueinmn @vic83 @marye2 and others.
Often, active surveillance is the first step and a new CT scan ordered in 3 to 6 months to see if it is growing. Sometimes, with nodules over 12mm further testing such as a PET scan or biopsy will be ordered.
@aahlrichs, may I ask why the CT scan was ordered that found the nodule? Nodules rarely cause symptoms. Were you having symptoms or was the CT scan for something else?