2-3mm nodule in right lung

[PB1233]

Hi,

A recent CT scan revealed a 2-3mm nodule in my right lung. I am a 30 year old and have probably smoked one pack of cigarette at the most. I haven't smoked in the last 3 to 4 years at all.

My doctor tells me that in Midwest it is common to see a 2-3mm nodule due to an infection. I have a little bit of cough every morning (especially right after brushing my teeth) but that has been there for a very long time. No blood in cough or no respiratory infections like bronchitis or pneumonia.

I am going to get a chest ct scan again in 3 months but I was wondering if this should be a cause of concern.

Thanks.

[tinabarringer]

50 year old mother 1 year ago there was a chest x ray done results indicated a motion artifact? When questioned indicated patient must of breathed during x ray. This year CT was completed there was a 3 mm nodule found. When requested paperwork there was documented an additional 5mm nodule. There is  a family history of lung cancer and family is very distressed that the doctor does not want to do any further treatment. Doctor stated need to wait 6 months to see if nodules grow. family asked for a second opinion and doctor stated insurance would not cover it.  Is this standard practice or should I find a doctor that cares?

[linda528]

An x ray found a 3cm lump on my right lung behind the heart.  I have never smoked.  My father died at the age of 65 of pulmonary fibrosis. I am being scheduled for a CT Scan. Will this show if it is cancer.

[kakk333]

I've been having pain in my abdominal of the upper right side under my ribs for about 2 months. Had ct scan of abdomen, did you mom ever find out if this lump was causing her abdominal pain somehow?

I had a ct scan of my spine, but I am not sure if they check the lungs with this?

[dk202]

My mom who is 55 years old, and has never smoked in her life recently had a ct scan which revealed a lump on her right lung. She has been complaining of stomach pains for a while, but tests into that have so far revealed nothing.

Shouold this be a cause for concern?

[HeinrikMD]

Hi,

Based on its size and your age, it is probably not cancer.

The smoking history you describe is a bit vague, do you mean you smoked no more than 20 sticks your entire life, or no more than 20 sticks at any given time/day?

The usual decision to repeat the scan in 3 months is common practice, though there are proponents of making the imaging intervals match the risk of finding cancer (put another way, that higher risk means more frequent monitoring). If you smoked at most one pack your entire life, then 3 months is reasonable, I would think even 6 months to a year may be equally effective.

Stay positive.