Lung Nodules(Multiple,irregular,new,small)

[sjh88]

I have had 4 ct scans in the past year.The first on detected multiple scattered nodules with an irregular shape.They are 2mm to 7mm.The ct scan I recieved last month shows that I have new small nodules.One of the 6mm nodules shrunk to 4mm.I have never smoked.I painted my popcorn ceiling 10 years ago and recently found out that there was asbestos in it.I also tore up some linoleum tiles in my kitchen and bathroon 2 years ago and later found out that they had asbestos in them.I read that multiple,irregular and new nodules increases the chance of malignancy.It the chances are 80% that they could be.I am also concerned about all the radiation I am getting from all these ct scans.I read that a ct scan has 50 times the radiation of a chest xray.I also read that the chance of getting cancer from a ct scan is 1 in 100,which is not small.i was also told that a biopsy done on my small nodules can be a tough one.I think I am faceing a real dilemma,and a lot anxiety about what to do.Based on everything are there any nodule experts that might be able to guess what the chances are that the nodules can be malignant?And what should I do?  Thank You

[National Jewish]

The radiation risk of repeat CT scans is real, especially if you are a young person.  You are right -- there is significant radiation from CT scans.  However the risks of repeatedly doing this test must be weighed against the value of the information to be derived from the scans.  The radiation risk is a complex matter that is still debated in the medical literature.

The nodules could be from asbestos.  Assuming that all the nodules are similar in appearance, the decrease in size of even 1 nodule is strong evidence against these being tumors that are benign or malignant.

A lung biopsy could provide a diagnosis.  Knowing the diagnosis could determine what further testing needs to be done.  This could relieve your anxiety.  When a biopsy is done by bronchoscopy and the nodules are small, it is common to get normal lung tissue rather than tissue from the nodule.  Of course this doesn’t help sort out the problem.  If any of the nodules are in the periphery of your lung, there is a greater chance of getting tissue from the nodule when a biopsy is done by video assisted thorascopic surgery (VATS).  During this procedure the lung and surrounding tissues are examined through a scope with a small video camera at one end of a flexible tube that is placed through a small incision between the ribs.

You should consider getting opinions on this from 2 different board certified pulmonologists, rather than from a thoracic surgeon.

[worrywart2]

I feel your pain because I am going through the exact same thing. I have had 2 ct scans and a ct/pet scan all within 3 months and read the same thing you did about the radiation. One doctor I went to recently for my child told me I was getting way too much radiation exposure and to not do it.

I don't understand how doctors can keep insisting upon ct scans if this is the case. 1-100 chance of getting cancer from a ct scan is terrible!

I just got a notice in the mail to have my 4th ct scan. I am going in to see the doctor to find out exactly how much radiation exposure I am getting from these. Based upon what he tells me, I may not do it. I may just have a chest x-ray every couple of months instead.