Are Lung Nodules A Sure Sign Of Cancer?

Posted on Sun, 13 May 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 13 May 2018 Answered on

Mon, 8 Jan 2024 Last reviewed on

Question : I have posted so many questions and I'm a nervous wreck I'm barely functioning. a chest x ray found two nodules on his lungs one month ago 11mm and 7mm. he is still waiting for his cat scan due to a switch in insurance. I basically already have his funeral planned in my head and all I want are answers. I asked the dr if the cancer would likely be early stage since it's small and he did not have an answer for me. I'm a nurse so I know alot depends on the cell type... the rational part of me is gone and the people internet says that being 11mm its probably cancer.

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Advice to undergo CT scan and biopsy

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I have gone through your query and I understand that the situation you are going through is very difficult. I would suggest that you need to relax and not think of the worst at this point. I understand that it is easier said than done and I would defenitely suggest seeking help of family and friends at this time.
Lung nodules (even if 11 mm) are not always cancerous. There are granulomas which are common occurance seen as lung nodules in chest Xray and they are not cancerous.
In young individuals who do not having smoking history, lung cancer is highly unlikely.
However, since the nodules have been noted, it is important to get a CT scan and biopsy of the nodules done after which only we can know about whether the nodules are cancerous or not.
Also, follow up with your insurance companies and.discuss with them about the necessity of Cat scan for your him and to make the process faster.

Hope this answers your question
Please let me know if you need further clarification
Regards
Dr.Lekshmi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T