3 mm lung nodule following radiation therapy

[molly1150]

My 64 year old mom just completed radiation therapy following a lumpectomy for a small Stage 1 cancer in her breast. She had no lymph node involvement. We just received news that a recent CT showed a 3mm nodule (undifferenciated) in her lung. Should we assume that the cancer has metastised to the lung? We have to wait for a repeat CT scan later this month. We are frantic after having such hope. If it is cancer is chemo the treatment of choice?

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
Your mother was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer and she underwent breast conservation surgery (lumpectomy) and radiation therapy.  Her latest CT scan showed a 3mm lung nodule.  We are not certain whether this lung nodule is a recurrence of breast cancer or a benign or malignant lung disease.  An option would be to observe the behavior of this lung nodule by doing a repeat CT scan after several months.  You many also opt for a biopsy (perhaps a CT scan guided biopsy) of that lung nodule.  If it indeed turns out to be malignant, your mother’s oncologist can discuss treatment options with you.
Good luck