question about nodules in lung & lymph nodes

[snagglepusslynn]

2 yr ago I had a chest scan and it showed 2 lung nodules, bottom of both lung collapsed and emphezema. Had another scan the end of this past Dec. Went to see my doctor last week to go over the recent scan and there are 2 more 4mm nodules, ant have a shorty lymph node near the tracheal and another glass like lymph node.
What is a shorty lymph node and glass like lymph node . Doctor say 25% that its cancer and wants to do another scan in 6 myths. Seeing a lung doctor on the 18th but going to try to get a sooner apt. I think 6 myths is long to wait and think I should get a pet scan very soon . I really need to know what is going on. Please give me you advice about all and any suggestions I should ask the lung doctor when I se him. Thank you for your time.

[John Irlam, DO, FASCP]

Hi Lynn,
Sorry for the delay in response.  I'm not sure what those terms mean (shorty lymph node and glass like lymph node), I've never heard that used before, I'll have to do some research on those terms.  As far as a PET scan goes they are used to determine how metabolically active the tissues are (how much energy they're using).  This test cannot positively say if someone has cancer as not all cancers are PET positive and there are other things that can cause a positive PET scan (inflammation and infection being two).  Will you let me know what the pulmonologist says?  How large are the lung nodules you had two years ago?
John

[John Irlam, DO, FASCP]

Okay Lynn thanks for all that good information, I'm interested in seeing how everything goes during your appointment.  Will you drop me a line after your appointment and give an update?
Thanks,
John

[snagglepusslynn]

John, I do not know how big the orig. 2 nodules were but report says they are stable, but will ask my pulm. doctor on the 18th. My primary doc did mention that inflamation ,, infection as you said. I want to know if I could get the pheunomia shot nowl Never had one, but with this stuff going on in my lungs think it is a good idea, but again will ask my pulm. doc. Will post back after the 18th with what comes next.Thanks for replying. Will also have new bloodwork test results by then.
Lynn