The Cancer Survivors Network (CSN) is a peer support community for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends! CSN is a safe place to connect with others who share your interests and experiences.

Nodule

markandrew
markandrew CSN Member Posts: 2 *
in Lung Cancer #1

just was told 1.3 cm. Right upper lobe nodule was “ nothing, probably just infection “

I had no sign of lung infection ( fever, elevated WBC, etc)

I think Dr is being too cavalier about it- what do other people think?

Like Care

Comments

  • eDivebuddy
    eDivebuddy CSN Member Posts: 155 Member
    #2

    90% of all lung nodules are benign with no symptoms whatsoever. But for a physician to say it's probably an infection should mean it has features more common with an infection.

    What does the radiology report say

    Like Care
  • markandrew
    markandrew CSN Member Posts: 2 *
    #3
    IMG_0542.jpeg

    thanks for your help!

    1Like Care
  • eDivebuddy
    eDivebuddy CSN Member Posts: 155 Member
    #4

    Not a doctor but hopefully this gives you a better understanding and a starting point for a discussion with your doctor.

    The tree-in-bud pattern and bronchiectasis strongly suggest an infection.

    A sputum culture would normally be done to identify potential infectious causes. You've already had a CBC, I believe. You can talk with your doctor about adding a CRP, ESR, or Procalcitonin test to check deeper for inflammation.

    However, a sputum culture, CBC, possible inflammatory markers test, and follow-up imaging in 4 to 6 weeks would be standard unless there is a strong reason to suspect something else.

    Good luck to you. While an infection isn't nothing, it's way better than needing to be here

    1Like Care
  • Luna08
    Luna08 CSN Member Posts: 1 Member
    #5

    I had a nodule show up on a CT scan for back pain. Another CT to focus on the lobe it was in, basically just confirmed it existed. I think there was an MRI in there somewhere too. Had a PET scan come back as non cancerous because it didn't "light up".

    The plan was to check back in 3 months but I was supposed to be getting married that month and I didn't want or need anything else on my mind. I pushed for a biopsy. Sure enough it was cancer and I ended up with a right lower lobectomy to remove it.

    Moral of the story- Advocate for yourself. Get the biopsy if you can. Better to know sooner than later.

    1Like Care
  • eDivebuddy
    eDivebuddy CSN Member Posts: 155 Member
    #6

    I would suggest you Post this to its own thread. I tell people all the time that a PET scan can not confirm or eliminate the possibility of cancer. I'd even invite you to Post it to lungivity

    1Like Care

Discussion Boards