lung nodule

i had an episode of pulmonary embolisms 3 years ago, had a recent ct scan to rule it out for a second time.  No PE's found but a 5mm lung nodule subpleurally within the superior segment of the right lowere lobe was found.  This is nonspecific but more likely posinflammatory in nature.  Six month followup chest ct is recommended to document stability/resolution.  There was minimal scarring in both lung bases, right greater than left.  What exactly does this mean?.  Our primary physician says it is nothing to be concerned about.  That the wording on this report does not reveal anything suspicious.  Help anxiety is at all time high.  Our physician believes it is the result of the trauma of the pe's.  Past history of smoking.  He is sending me for a PET scan to ease all fears.

[National Jewish Health]

A 5 mm nodule is a very small nodule.  That doesn't mean that it isn't potentially serious but the great majority of nodules this size are benign.  If this nodule has developed in the area of your previous pulmonary emboli (PE) 3 years ago that would be re-assuring, with an increased likelihood of its being scar tissue.  The basilar scarring is consistent with your history of PE.  Information about why recent PE were suspected, could be a useful guide to the subsequent diagnostic approach to this nodule.

If the PET scan, in conjunction with the recent CT scan, reinforces your doctor's belief that this is a benign lesion, the recommendation to wait and repeat the scan in 6 months is appropriate.  On the other hand, if suspicion is heightened by the PET scan, or if the nodule has significantly enlarged in 6 months, removal of this easily accessible sub-pleural nodule using video assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), would be appropriate.