Chest X-ray Showing Nodule. Had Asthma. Smoked In Past. Advice?
I had a chest xray in June, 2012 which indicated a 4mm nodule and a dr. recommendation to followup in 6 months. I have had chest xrays frequently over the years and this was noever seen before. I moved out of state and did not have a doctor so just had the new xray done in April, 2013. It indicates no change in the nodule and dr. recommended followup in a year with another chest xray. No other treatment or scans have been suggested. I have had asthma most of my life and am now 67 years old. I smoked when I was younger bust have not smoked in 40 years. Should I insist on more tests to rule out cancer?
Hi and thanks for the query,
Considering the fact that the nodule is not evolving, that is not increasing in size or spreading or causing any local symptoms, it is almost obvious that it should be a real cause for invasive investigation now. However, a clinical and paraclinical evaluation, to evaluate the integrity of nearby structures is compelling. Good enough that the chest X ray shows nothing new, other structures that are usually generally affected by lung tumours are the bones. A measurement of blood calcium levels and serum alkaline phosphatase could be important.
For now, I suggest you need to be calm and follow your doctors recommendations simply, being very keen anyway to report any new findings deemed abnormal to your physician.
Thanks and best regards,
Luchuo, MD.
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Chest X-ray Showing Nodule. Had Asthma. Smoked In Past. Advice?
Hi and thanks for the query, Considering the fact that the nodule is not evolving, that is not increasing in size or spreading or causing any local symptoms, it is almost obvious that it should be a real cause for invasive investigation now. However, a clinical and paraclinical evaluation, to evaluate the integrity of nearby structures is compelling. Good enough that the chest X ray shows nothing new, other structures that are usually generally affected by lung tumours are the bones. A measurement of blood calcium levels and serum alkaline phosphatase could be important. For now, I suggest you need to be calm and follow your doctors recommendations simply, being very keen anyway to report any new findings deemed abnormal to your physician. Thanks and best regards, Luchuo, MD.