Understanding Lung Nodules: What Your CT Scan Results Mean
Lung computed tomography (CT) scan shows a nodule? Dear Doctor: I had a CT scan of my lungs, and the report results are as follows: I see there is a nodule, and I am very worried... Can you explain how a nodule (0.3cm, se3/im52) could occur? Shouldn't normal individuals typi...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Eason: Not all nodules are bad; it depends on their characteristics, such as whether they are solid, among other factors. A size of 0.3 cm is usually benign, and follow-up after one year is typically sufficient. The causes are often due to scarring from previous infections o...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: What Your CT Scan Results Mean
Understanding Left Chest Pain and Numbness: Possible Causes and Concerns
Left chest tightness and numbness in the left hand and left foot? Hello, doctor. During my recent yoga practice, I suddenly experienced a sharp pain in my left chest. I managed to finish the exercise, but the pain did not subside. After eating and resting, the pain persisted, and...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: The initial analysis suggests that it resembles muscle pain, possibly related to insufficient warm-up during yoga practice or sleeping posture. If there is no improvement after a while, it is advisable to get a chest X-ray (to check for any significant abnormalities in the...[Read More] Understanding Left Chest Pain and Numbness: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lung CT Findings: Ground-Glass Nodules and Next Steps
CT report of pulmonary issues? Imaging findings: The MDCT of the chest was performed without intravenous contrast medium enhancement and revealed the following: The lung parenchyma is well demonstrated with some ground-glass opacities in both lungs. The bilateral mainstem bronchi...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Lu: A 2.2 cm tumor that is indeed removed is a good thing; the absence of lymph node involvement is a positive sign, indicating that there has been no metastasis. To rule out distant metastasis, a PET scan can be performed for early detection, which can be managed effectivel...[Read More] Understanding Lung CT Findings: Ground-Glass Nodules and Next Steps
Understanding a 2.4 cm Lung Nodule: Risks and Next Steps
2 cm pulmonary nodule Hello, Dr. Shen. I have a CT scan of my lungs every six months, and this time a 2.4 cm ground-glass nodule has appeared that was not present six months ago. I read online that nodules over 2 cm should be removed, and that there is an 80-90% chance of maligna...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: It cannot be determined at this time. Please continue to monitor the situation and consult with your attending physician for further follow-up. Thank you, and wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding a 2.4 cm Lung Nodule: Risks and Next Steps
Understanding the Progression of Lung Cancer Metastasis: Key Insights
The progression of lung cancer metastasis occurs through several stages. Initially, cancer cells may invade nearby lung tissue. From there, they can enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system, allowing them to spread to other parts of the body. Common Hello, Doctor. Currently, the...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to seek consultation for diagnosis. The progression of cancer varies significantly among individuals. The size of a nodule is not a definitive indicator of metastasis; there are cases where small malignant lung tumors have already metastasized. I understa...[Read More] Understanding the Progression of Lung Cancer Metastasis: Key Insights
Understanding Lung Nodules: Monitoring, Risks, and Follow-Up Guidelines
Lung nodule follow-up? 1. In the report, SRS stands for "Size Rating Scale," which is a scoring system used to assess the size of pulmonary nodules, while IM stands for "Impression Measurement," which may refer to the evaluation of the characteristics of the n...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: 1. It is recommended to continue regular follow-ups as advised by your attending physician. However, for stable nodules, you may consider extending the interval between follow-ups. 2. During the two CT follow-up periods, you can also monitor with chest X-rays every six mon...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Monitoring, Risks, and Follow-Up Guidelines
Understanding Lung Nodules: Key Questions and Follow-Up Recommendations
Nodule issues? 1. In the report, SRS stands for "Spiculated Radiographic Score," which is a measure used to assess the characteristics of pulmonary nodules, while IM stands for "Imaging Measurement," which refers to the size or density measurements of the nodu...
Dr. Huang Yiwen Reply:
Dear Kai: The numbers you mentioned refer to the specific slice and image seen by the radiologist; they don't hold particular significance and are merely indicative of the location. The frequency of examinations depends on risk factors such as smoking history, family history...[Read More] Understanding Lung Nodules: Key Questions and Follow-Up Recommendations
Rib Pain from Coughing: When to See a Doctor for Your Symptoms
Coughing to the point of rib pain? Tracheal mucus? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing pain in my right rib cage for the past few days. I now feel significant pain when taking deep breaths, turning over, or raising my arms. There is noticeable tenderness between two ribs at th...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello, typically, ribs require a significant amount of external force to fracture, making rib fractures relatively uncommon. They are more likely to occur in individuals with osteoporosis or those with rheumatologic conditions who have been on long-term corticosteroid therapy. Re...[Read More] Rib Pain from Coughing: When to See a Doctor for Your Symptoms
Understanding Lung Patterns: Interpreting Increased Lung Markings vs. Infiltrates
Chest examination The X-ray examination shows increased lung markings, while another hospital mentioned lung infiltration without mentioning lung markings. Are lung markings and lung infiltration interpreted as the same thing? Will it resolve on its own? What kind of pathological...
Dr. Zhang Youzheng Reply:
Hello: The pulmonary markings seen on a chest X-ray refer to the vascular patterns in the lungs. Even if the report indicates an increase in these markings, it usually leans towards being non-pathological. Infiltrates typically suggest some degree of inflammation or infection in ...[Read More] Understanding Lung Patterns: Interpreting Increased Lung Markings vs. Infiltrates
Understanding Chest X-Ray Findings: What to Do Next?
Chest X-ray report Hello, doctor. I recently received my health check report, and the chest X-ray indicated "suspected aortic arch curvature," "suspected bilateral hilar enlargement," and "suspected increased interstitial infiltration in both lungs."...
Dr. Zhang Ziyan Reply:
Hello Mr. Yu, the reported aortic arch curvature can usually be monitored, but the bilateral hilar enlargement and increased interstitial infiltration should be evaluated based on actual X-rays. It is recommended that you consult a pulmonologist. Changhua Hospital's Departme...[Read More] Understanding Chest X-Ray Findings: What to Do Next?
Understanding CEA Levels and Ground-Glass Nodules in Lung Health
Abnormal CEA and Ground-Glass Opacity (GGO) Nodules? Recently, the CEA index from a health check was 7.1. A low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan of the lungs was performed for the first time, revealing two scattered ground-glass nodules in the right lung measuring approximately...
Dr. Shen Bochan Reply:
Hello: A follow-up CT scan should be performed in 4 to 6 months. If there are no changes, the follow-up interval can be extended. There should be no direct correlation with radiation therapy.[Read More] Understanding CEA Levels and Ground-Glass Nodules in Lung Health
Understanding Tuberculosis Symptoms: Key Questions and Concerns
Symptoms of pulmonary tuberculosis? Hello Doctor, I have been told by a physician that I might have tuberculosis, but currently, I am unable to produce any sputum for testing. This situation has made me quite anxious. I would appreciate your assistance in clarifying some issues. ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: Tuberculosis (TB) of the lungs may not always present with symptoms, and having symptoms does not necessarily mean it is tuberculosis. The general diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis involves examining chest X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans. Of course, sputum tests...[Read More] Understanding Tuberculosis Symptoms: Key Questions and Concerns
Understanding Your CT Scan: No Nodules Found, But Why the Follow-Up?
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan The CT report states "lung: no remarkable nodular lesions (>0.4 cm)," which means there are no significant nodules larger than 0.4 cm in your lungs. However, your doctor may still recommend follow-up imaging for various reasons, such as ...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: 1. X-rays cannot detect small nodules less than 0.5 cm, so the X-ray report is normal. 2. CT scans may have difficulty distinguishing small nodules smaller than 0.4 cm from normal vascular tissue, so nodules larger than 0.4 cm are more noteworthy. Your CT scan did not show...[Read More] Understanding Your CT Scan: No Nodules Found, But Why the Follow-Up?
Does Fluoroquinolone Use Affect Tuberculosis Diagnosis?
Does the use of fluoroquinolones affect the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis? Hello Dr. Yang, I am a pharmacist. My boyfriend (who is the same age as me) previously went to the emergency room due to a fever, and an X-ray revealed lesions in his lungs. The doctor prescribed flu...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, I will prioritize considering a fungal infection. If the culture results from the second hospital show no tuberculosis, I will be less concerned about tuberculosis. Since the sputum smear is negative, there is no need to wear a mask continuously,...[Read More] Does Fluoroquinolone Use Affect Tuberculosis Diagnosis?
Understanding Rib Cartilage Calcification and Lung Overlap on X-rays
Regarding costal cartilage calcification and lung overlap? Hello, I would like to ask if the finding of costal cartilage calcification overlapping with the lungs on an X-ray after a health check is a normal phenomenon or something that requires attention due to illness? Thank you...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Your X-ray may have shown calcification points within the ribs (commonly referred to as bone islands), which are unrelated to lung health, so there is no need to worry.[Read More] Understanding Rib Cartilage Calcification and Lung Overlap on X-rays
Understanding Chest Pressure: Why Lying Down Causes Discomfort
Chest tightness? Hello Doctor, whenever I lie down or sleep on my side, I feel a strong pressure in the center of my chest, but this does not happen when I am standing. What could be the reason for this?
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Take an X-ray to examine the lungs and check for any issues in the mediastinum, as well as to assess for any gastroesophageal problems.[Read More] Understanding Chest Pressure: Why Lying Down Causes Discomfort
Understanding Right-Sided Chest Pain After COVID-19: Causes and Next Steps
Right-sided chest pain? After being infected with COVID-19, I have been experiencing pain on the right side of my chest (approximately from the lower edge of the breast to the outer area of the breast) for over three weeks. I have difficulty taking deep breaths, and I feel sharp ...
Dr. Wu Yingxun Reply:
Hello: The likelihood of neuropathic pain may be higher, and since the examination showed no issues, it should not be an organic problem.[Read More] Understanding Right-Sided Chest Pain After COVID-19: Causes and Next Steps
Understanding Chest Examination Results: Key Findings Explained
Chest examination Hello Doctor, I recently experienced chest pain and underwent some examinations. I would like to ask you to check for any abnormalities, thank you (I have diabetes). Chest examination (including various angles and positions) Findings: - Spinal asymmetry. - N...
Dr. Zhang Youzheng Reply:
Hello: The chest X-ray report shows that the spine is asymmetric, while the heart and mediastinum are within normal limits. No fractures are observed in the bones. There is some mild pleural thickening at the apices of both lungs, and the right lower lung field shows slightly coa...[Read More] Understanding Chest Examination Results: Key Findings Explained
Understanding Chest X-Ray Results: Insights and Patient Guidance
Chest X-ray examination Hello Doctor, I recently had a chest X-ray at a hospital in the northern part of Taiwan, and the report stated: "mild infiltrates in both lower lungs. Suggest clinical correlation and follow-up. Blunting of left costophrenic angle. Otherwise, unremark...
Dr. Wang Zhengde Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it seems that your attending physician suspects an infection or other issues in your lungs and needs to obtain relevant specimens. Inhaling steam to help with mucus clearance is a feasible method. Suctioning mucus with a tube is also a commonly u...[Read More] Understanding Chest X-Ray Results: Insights and Patient Guidance
Understanding Ground-Glass Nodules in Lung Health: What You Need to Know
Ground-glass nodules in the lungs detected during a physical examination? Hello, Doctor. During this year's health check-up, the report indicated a 0.4 cm ground-glass opacity (GGO) nodule in the left lower lung. Could you please help me review the report? What should I be a...
Dr. Yang Wenda Reply:
Hello: Ground-glass nodules may simply be small inflammations; it is usually recommended to follow up with a CT scan in 12 months.[Read More] Understanding Ground-Glass Nodules in Lung Health: What You Need to Know