Lung nodule

Lung Nodule

A Lung Nodule is a small, round or oval-shaped growth in the lung that is easier to identify on a CT scan than on a standard X-ray. They are usually benign (noncancerous), but they can also represent the early stage of lung cancer.

Causes

Lung nodules can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Infection: Certain infections can cause lung nodules to form. These include tuberculosis and other bacterial, fungal, or viral infections.
• Inflammation: Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and sarcoidosis can cause lung nodules.
• Cancer: Lung nodules can be an early sign of lung cancer. They can also be caused by cancer that has spread to the lungs from other parts of the body.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a lung nodule often involves a CT scan, which can provide detailed images of the lungs. Other diagnostic tests may include a PET scan, a biopsy, or a bronchoscopy.

Treatment

The treatment for a lung nodule depends on its cause. If the nodule is benign, no treatment may be necessary. If the nodule is cancerous, treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

See Also

• Pulmonology
• Radiology
• Oncology