Lung Nodules

[Mag1969]

I had a heart scan 2 1/2 years ago.  They found a 7mm subplural nodule (calcified) on my left lung.  I followed up just recently with a more accurant CT scan. My Dr. called yesterday to say they showed some nodules (some calcified) on my lungs and to follow up in 6 months.  He asked me where I had lived because often times these nodules show up from dust or particles found in certain parts of the country.  I am asymtomatic and have never smoked a day in my life.  I am 38 years old and am so worried now about these nodules and what they mean.  The radiologist didn't seem too concerned and simply told me to follow up in 6 months.  What do you think?

[National Jewish Health]

We agree with your doctors, that you should not be worried.  The nodules you describe are non-specific.  Calcification is a reliable sign that the nodules in question are not a sign of cancer, but almost always the residual of prior infection, often the result of prior infection with one of a number of fungi:  Histoplasmosis in the mid-western US and Coccidiomycosis, commonly called valley fever, in the south-west and California.  If these nodules are all roughly the same size, shape and otherwise resemble each other in appearance, it is likely that they have all been caused by the same process, usually infectious.  Then, if some are calcified, it is likely that overtime, the rest will calcify.

That the radiologist is "not too concerned", is reason for optimism.

If you continue to be worried, despite the reassurance of your doctors, you should discuss this in more detail with them and consider requesting another opinion from a lung specialist.  You could also request an opinion from another radiologist, preferably one who specializes in chest radiology.

[Jolene0111]

I don't have any answers for you, but I am going for a CT Scan in an hour because a chest xray showed " an apparent nodule" in my right lower lung. I am terrified ! I have had a cough since November. I'll be glad to offer you my follow up if it will help you.