lung nodules

I had a CT done for another issue and they found noncalcified lung nodules at the base of each lung between 4mmand 6.5 mm Imy doctor said they are believed to be granulatomas. I received a copy alf the radiologist report which basically the same thing and that they are subpleural in nature. To follow up with a chest CT.It showed mu liver -gallnladder and pancreas to be good. Why I am worried my sister died of lung and liver cancer but she was a 50 year smoker of non filtered cigarettes. I smoked for about 10 years but a have quit for over 20 years.I'm scared because I read noncalcified is almost always malignant. I am a 62 year old woman with RA. I sent my radiologist report to my Rheumotologist he said he agrees with my primary care doctor. Should I be as worried as I am

[David Tinkelman, M.D.]

Your worry about lung cancer is understandable given, your experience with your sister’s illness and death.  That is a very scary thought but, based on the information you have provided, I believe your fears to be unwarranted.  These are multiple, very small nodules that, by your description, are most consistent with granulomas, including so-called Rheumatoid nodules, associated with RA.  

You are mistaken about non-calcified nodules being “almost always malignant.  While most lung cancer lesions are non-calcified, the overwhelming majority of non-calcified nodules, especially of this size, are benign (non-malignant).

I agree with what has been recommended by your PCP, your Rheumatologist and the Radiologist.  You and/or they might also try to locate and obtain any and all previous chest X-rays, for comparison with the present images.

So good that you quit smoking and with that single act greatly reduced your chances of ever having lung cancer.

Good luck