What Do Nodules In Lungs Indicate?

Posted on Mon, 8 Dec 2014

Question: Hi, I had an MRI a year back and 3 small nodules were discovered on my lungs. I'm 43 and a non-smoker. I had a CT scan to confirm this and then had another CT scan 6 months later. After the last scan the radiologist said the nodules were stable since the last scan with largest one being 6mm. He said the nodules have the appearance of scars and there was no instruction for follow-up. My questions are 1. One nodule was 1 mm difference on one side example 4x5mm to 5x5mm, but on inquiring with several people that would just seem to be down to a very slight variation in image or the radiologists interpretation -is this correct? 2. Would you still advise another CT scan in 12 months as per the Fleischner Society Recommendations or not? I’d obviously rather not subject myself to more radiation from the CT scan and would like to forget about this. Thanks in advance for your help!

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Stable scars,no CT,consult doctor if symptomatic

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query on HealthcareMagic.
Nodules in lung imaging have to be investigated.
Lung CT/MRI has shown that the lung nodules are scars and there is no suspicion of malignancy.
Scars are commonly due to inflammatory conditions.
Stable scars are not of any consequence so you need not go for further CT chest.
However, if symptomatic e.g. development of symptoms like chest pain, dyspnea or breathlessness requires prompt medical assessment.

If you have more queries, I will be glad to answer.
Dr Shailja P Wahal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj