What are lung nodules?
Lung nodules are small spots in the lungs that look different from normal lung tissue. Most lung nodules are not cancer. However, doctors often need to do tests to make sure. The goal of our Lung Nodule Program is to find out if a nodule is cancer and, if it is, to help plan the right care and treatment.
Are lung nodules common?
Yes. Lung nodules are very common. They are found in about half of adults who have a chest X‑ray or CT scan. Most lung nodules are not cancer.
What causes lung nodules?
Lung nodules often form because of scar tissue in the lungs. This scar tissue may be caused by health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis. Lung nodules can also form after infections that caused swelling or pus in the lungs. Breathing in fungus or air pollution may also lead to lung nodules. In some cases, the cause is not known.
If a lung nodule is cancer, it is most often linked to a history of heavy smoking. Breathing in harmful substances, such as radon or asbestos, can also raise the risk of lung cancer. More testing is needed to know for sure if a lung nodule is cancer.
What symptoms do lung nodules cause?
Small lung nodules usually do not cause symptoms. Larger nodules may cause chest pain or trouble breathing. Large nodules are more often linked to lung cancer.
How are lung nodules diagnosed?
Lung nodules are usually found on a chest X‑ray or CT scan. They may be found during yearly lung cancer screenings for people at higher risk. Nodules may also be found during routine exams or tests done for other health reasons.
If a lung nodule is found, your care team may order more tests to see if it is cancer. These tests may include more CT scans, a PET‑CT scan, or a biopsy.
A lung biopsy removes a small piece of tissue from the nodule so it can be checked for abnormal cells. A biopsy may be done in one of these ways:
- Needle biopsy: A needle is guided through the chest to collect tissue.
- Bronchoscopy: A thin tube with a light is passed through the mouth or nose and into the lungs.
- Bronchoscopy with endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS): Ultrasound is used to look at lymph nodes near the airways.
- Bronchoscopy with electromagnetic navigation: Special tools help doctors reach hard‑to‑reach areas of the lung.
- Mediastinoscopy: A small cut is made at the top of the breastbone to collect tissue.
There are two main types of lung cancer: non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). NSCLC is more common. SCLC is less common but grows and spreads faster.
Lung nodule treatment options
If you have a lung nodule, you will meet with a care team to review your test results. Together, you will talk about the best treatment options for you. Your treatment plan will be based on your diagnosis, overall health, and personal preferences.
Non‑cancerous lung nodules usually do not grow or change. Cancer nodules often grow over time. If your risk for lung cancer is low and the nodule is small, your doctor may choose to watch it closely. This usually means having CT scans every 6 to 12 months. If the nodule does not change, no treatment is needed.
If the nodule is cancer, your care team will recommend treatment based on the type of cancer and how far it has spread. Common lung cancer treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.