Understanding Lung Nodules: Risks, Monitoring, and Treatment Options
Progression and Regression of Pulmonary Nodules Hello, Doctor: My father (50 years old) had a lung nodule (1.4 cm) detected during a health check-up. After consulting three doctors, most indicated it is likely benign. I have researched and found that there is about an 80% chance ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Mr. Li, if it is 1.4 cm, I would recommend removal. If it is less than 1 cm, I would suggest monitoring it. If it were to become malignant, it would likely do so within 1 to 2 years. The rate of transformation to malignancy is difficult to determine. It is unlikely to resolv...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Risks, Monitoring, and Treatment Options
Understanding Lung Nodules: Key Questions and Expert Insights
Management of pulmonary nodules? Dear Doctor, I had a chest CT scan on May 1st, which showed a 0.7 cm nodule in my right lung. I have several questions: 1. I was suffering from a severe cold with yellow-green sputum. Would this affect the interpretation of the CT scan? 2. Chang...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: 1. The relationship between a cold with yellow phlegm and nodules is minimal. 2. It is recommended to follow up in three months. 3. Smoking may lead to emphysema, but it varies by individual constitution; your imaging results are not significant, and your emphysema should ...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Key Questions and Expert Insights
Understanding Cough, Chest Pain, and Lung Nodules: Key Concerns
Recent concerns about cough, chest pain, and pulmonary nodules? Due to a family history of lung cancer (grandmother) and experiencing some respiratory symptoms earlier this year, I paid out of pocket for a low-dose CT scan, which revealed a 0.45 cm lung nodule. At that time, the ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
1. If the nodule is malignant, it may increase in size after six months. If it does increase, a biopsy may need to be considered. If you are still concerned about the 0.45 cm nodule, you can discuss with a thoracic surgeon the possibility of an earlier biopsy. 2. Coughing is usua...[Read More] Understanding Cough, Chest Pain, and Lung Nodules: Key Concerns
Understanding Lung Nodules: Should You Be Concerned About Size Changes?
Pulmonary nodule enlargement? Hello Doctor, I had a health check-up at Taipei Kang Ning Hospital last December, and there were about six nodules in my lungs, two of which were larger GGO (ground-glass opacities) with the hospital report indicating sizes of 0.55 and 0.5. In April ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The changes are indeed minimal and within the measurement error range, unlike the behavior of tumor cells. It is recommended to follow the physician's advice for annual CT scans. If you are still concerned, a follow-up chest X-ray after six months can also be consider...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Should You Be Concerned About Size Changes?
Understanding Small Lung Nodules: Concerns and Connections
Small pulmonary nodules issue? Hello doctor, I had a low-dose CT scan in August 2015, which revealed a nodule measuring 0.2 to 0.3 cm in the upper lobe of my right lung. I have been undergoing follow-up scans every three months, and two additional CT scans during this period show...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The first nodule has not increased in size, which is likely less related to the second nodule. Congratulations on successfully quitting smoking! For follow-up, you only need to have chest X-rays every six months. Typically, nodules larger than 0.7-0.8 centimeters can be de...[Read More] Understanding Small Lung Nodules: Concerns and Connections
Understanding Lung Nodules: Is a Biopsy Necessary for Diagnosis?
Regarding pulmonary nodules? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about pulmonary nodules. If we want to take an active approach, should we first perform a biopsy? Is the biopsy of a pulmonary nodule done by inserting a needle directly through the skin? Thank you!
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: The evaluation of pulmonary nodules depends on various factors such as size, location, and shape. It is advisable to consult a pulmonologist or a thoracic surgeon for recommendations based on the actual condition of the CT scan images.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Is a Biopsy Necessary for Diagnosis?
Understanding Lung Nodules: Risks, Asbestos Exposure, and Treatment Options
CT lung nodule issues Hello Doctor: Recently, my health check report showed six small nodules measuring 3.0 to 5.5 mm. Three years ago, I had a CT scan that showed no abnormalities, and I consulted with Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, where they mentioned that some of these might b...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The original attending physician explained things quite clearly and suggested that you continue follow-up with the original physician's outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Risks, Asbestos Exposure, and Treatment Options
Which Specialist to Consult for Lung Nodules: A Guide
Which specialty should I see for a nodule? Hello doctor, I have a lung nodule and I'm wondering which department I should see. I initially went to thoracic surgery, and the nurse mentioned that I should have seen internal medicine first. However, the doctor still allowed me ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: In principle, lung nodules can be evaluated by either a pulmonologist or a thoracic surgeon, as the assessment principles and content are quite similar. If surgery is needed, it is also advisable to seek a second opinion from another pulmonologist or thoracic surgeon. Best...[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for Lung Nodules: A Guide
Understanding Lung Nodules: Should You Worry About Cancer Risk?
Pulmonary nodule A month ago, I paid for a low-dose CT scan that indicated several nodules measuring 3-5.5 mm in both lung lobes, and my CEA level was elevated; the standard is 3.2, and mine is 4.2. Recently, I also felt lymph nodes in my armpit. Does this mean I have a high prob...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Please visit the pulmonology clinic and bring your CT scans and relevant information for the physician's assessment.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Should You Worry About Cancer Risk?
Should You Get a Low-Dose CT Scan for Lung Nodules?
Do nodules require a low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of the lungs? Last year, during a health check-up, a chest X-ray revealed an abnormality in one lung, prompting me to return to the hospital for a follow-up. The doctor arranged for a second set of images that day (the f...
Dr. Jian Shuntian Reply:
Hello: It is important to inform your physician about your smoking history. It is recommended to have a chest X-ray every six months, and you may consider undergoing a CT scan. Please discuss this further with your pulmonologist. Thank you.[Read More] Should You Get a Low-Dose CT Scan for Lung Nodules?
Understanding Lung Nodules: What New Spots on X-Ray Mean
Pulmonary nodules? Hello, doctor. My mother had a chest X-ray last year that revealed a white spot, and the doctor recommended continuous monitoring. Recently, during her follow-up X-ray, the original spot had not changed, but a new spot appeared. The doctor suggested a low-dose ...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello: The chest X-ray follow-up shows new lesions that require further evaluation. You can wait for the CT scan to be completed before discussing with the physician.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What New Spots on X-Ray Mean
Understanding Lung Nodules: What You Need to Know About Your Health
Regarding lung issues? My wife participated in a company health check in mid-April and recently received a report stating: "Suspected small nodule in the right upper lung, possibly a granuloma." Since last year's report did not show any abnormalities, we took her t...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Pulmonary nodules may be related to infections (usually accompanied by cough symptoms) such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, or residual scarring from pneumonia. They may also indicate early-stage tumors (but growth rate should be monitored, typically every 2-3 months)....[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What You Need to Know About Your Health
Understanding Hemoptysis: Causes of Coughing Blood and Chest Pain
Coughing up blood, chest pain, chest tightness, and phlegm? Hello Dr. Zhou: Four years ago, I underwent a biopsy for a lung nodule, which turned out to be fine! Since then, I have often had phlegm in my throat, and sometimes I feel chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Althou...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, 1. If the nodule has not changed over the past four years and a biopsy has been performed, the likelihood of it being benign is highest. 2. If the computed tomography shows bronchiectasis, this condition may present with symptoms such as hemoptysis and sputum production...[Read More] Understanding Hemoptysis: Causes of Coughing Blood and Chest Pain
Understanding Lung Nodules: Could They Indicate Lung Cancer?
Tuberculosis is cured? Four years ago, I had tuberculosis (with cavitation), which was severe. I completed treatment and recently underwent a health check for work, during which I filled out a form stating I had no diseases. After the report came out, it indicated a suspected nod...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, in most cases, the residual fibrotic tissue remains after tuberculosis treatment; however, there are rare instances where malignant transformation may occur. For detailed information, please consult your treating physician. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Could They Indicate Lung Cancer?
Understanding Lung Nodules: What Black Spots on X-rays Mean
There are black spots in the lungs? Hello doctor, I recently went for a check-up and found black spots in my right lung. I am 20 years old and have never experienced coughing up blood or persistent high fevers in the past. Although my previous lifestyle was irregular, I have had ...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Qinyi: The presence of black spots in the lungs is quite vague. If you have concerns, please consult a physician for further clarification on potential issues. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What Black Spots on X-rays Mean
Understanding Lung Nodules: What Do Black Spots on X-rays Mean?
Pulmonary nodules? Hello doctor, I recently had an X-ray that showed black spots in my lungs. I have gone to another clinic for further examination, but the report has not come out yet. However, my overall health has been normal. I am unsure what this could be.
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
DEAR ANITA: The description provided by the X-ray may not accurately answer your question; the response regarding the dark spots is too vague. It may still be necessary to review the images to provide a correct response. We apologize for any inconvenience, and Changhua Hospital c...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What Do Black Spots on X-rays Mean?
Understanding the Implications of Lung Nodules: A Patient's Journey
The shape of black spots? About a month ago, my father had a CT scan in Chengqing, which revealed a small dark spot. He was then referred to Veterans General Hospital, where the doctor interpreted it as having irregular edges. The hospital conducted blood tests for cancer markers...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello Ms. Wu: The inflamed area can present in any shape, and its disappearance is a reassuring outcome. It is advisable to follow the attending physician's recommendation for regular monitoring. Best wishes![Read More] Understanding the Implications of Lung Nodules: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Lung Nodules: Size, Risks, and Next Steps for Evaluation
Size of lung nodules..? My father has previously been seeing a hepatologist at the hospital and has undergone blood tests, all of which showed no abnormalities until recently when my mother noticed that he frequently caught colds. This prompted us to get an X-ray or CT scan, whic...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello Ms. Wu: Lung nodules (small nodules) larger than 1 centimeter are more likely to be noticed on a standard chest X-ray. Nodules smaller than 1 centimeter require a high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scan (which your father has already undergone) to be more easily detec...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Size, Risks, and Next Steps for Evaluation
Should Thoracic Surgery Be Consulted for Lung Nodules During Infection?
Is it possible to consult with a thoracic surgeon simultaneously? The mother was hospitalized due to a liver abscess, and during an abdominal CT scan, a 0.6 cm nodule was discovered in the lung. She currently has a 3 cm liver abscess and is being treated with oral antibiotics. Th...
Dr. Zhou Ziguang Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of pulmonary nodules. If there are previous imaging studies available, it would be easier to make a determination. If there are no prior images and immediate confirmation is needed, a surgical biopsy may be required. Based on what you described, you m...[Read More] Should Thoracic Surgery Be Consulted for Lung Nodules During Infection?
Understanding Lung Nodules: What Elevated CA153 and CEA Levels Mean
Pulmonary nodules? Dear Dr. Huang, I would like to ask a few questions regarding my mother's condition. Here is the situation: My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer 15 years ago and underwent a right mastectomy. Since then, there has been no recurrence (the right axill...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear: Based on your description, it is most likely a recurrence and metastasis of breast cancer. Although CA 15-3 can be elevated in other cancers, it is more specific to breast cancer. Generally, the higher the tumor marker levels, the worse the prognosis. The purpose of monitor...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What Elevated CA153 and CEA Levels Mean