indeterminate nodular density

[dianesjr]

Routine diagnostic CT scan showed indeterminate nodular denisty 5mm within right upper lobe. A very faint area of infiltrate in right middle lobe.  This is ill-defined. Prominent AP window node also noted measuring 1 x 1.8cm. What does this sound like? I was advised to have a recheck in 6 mos.  This seems like a long time to wait.  If it is cancer, wouldn't it be better to attack it now and not wait for it to grow and spread.  Please someone help to give me piece of mind.  I am a 47 yr. female and have smoked for 20 yrs and just quite two days ago. I only hope I have quit in time.  Thanks.

[pammie2]

HEYA,

I HAVE CT SCANS PERIODICALLY.  I HAVE END STAGE EMPHYSEMA.  THEY FOUND 2 NEW NODES IN MY LUNG.  MY PULMONARY DR SAID THEY ARE INSUGNIFICANT.  THEY WANT ME TO HAVE ANOTHER CT SCAN IN 6 MONTHS.  MY DR SAID THAT IS NORMAL FOR RESPRETORY ILLNESS.  

I KNOW FROM EXPERIENCE, IF IT WAS CANCER THEY WOULD BIOPSY IT IMMEDIANTLY.  MY HUSBAND DIED AT THE AGE OF 49 OF LUNG CANCER AND HIS NODE WAS ONLY 1 CM.  THEY BIOPSIED IT IMMEDIANTLY.  THERE ARE OTHER FACTORS THAT THEY LOOK AT TO DETERMINE IF IT COOULD BE CANCER.

GOOD LUCK HON,,  PLEASE LET ME KNOW HOW IT TURNS OUT.

[National Jewish]

A CT scan is not done as routine test.  A diagnostic CT scan is done to learn more about a particular health problem.

The huge majority of 5 mm nodules are not cancer.  The AP window node is slightly larger than normally encountered but could still be within normal limits.  A very faint area of infiltrate in the right middle lobe is probably of no harm to your health, as long as there are no findings that suggest an endobronchial mass.  A 3 month wait is often enough to detect change in size and a lot easier on one's peace of mind than a six month wait.