An Unexpected Spot on Your Lung: What You Should Know Next

Sometimes, a CT scan or X-ray finds something we weren’t looking for. Checking it out could save your life.

People have CT scans and X-rays for many reasons, including injuries from a car accident, chest pain, kidney stones or another health concern. One of those unexpected findings can be a lung nodule, sometimes referred to as an incidental lung nodule.

A lung nodule is a small spot on the lung. Most lung nodules are not cancer; many are caused by old infections, inflammation or scar tissue.

However, it is important not to ignore it.

Expert Review

The best way to know whether a lung nodule needs follow-up is to have it reviewed by a lung specialist. These physicians know what features to look for and can help determine whether a nodule is harmless or if additional testing is needed.

A small number of lung nodules may be identified as early lung cancer. Finding it before symptoms develop gives patients the best chance for successful treatment.

When lung cancer is found early, treatment options are often better. In some cases, lung cancer found in Stage 1 can be treated before it spreads and may even provide an opportunity for a cure.

That is why early detection saves lives.

Step-by-Step for Lung Nodule Follow-Up

At North Mississippi Health Services, we are committed to making sure patients with lung nodules receive the follow-up care they need. Pulmonary Consultants has a dedicated Lung Nodule Clinic to provide specialized care for patients with lung nodules.

NMHS uses advanced technology to identify reports that mention lung nodules. The system reviews radiology studies showing any portion of the lungs, even when the imaging study was focused on another medical problem.

When a lung nodule measuring 6 millimeters or larger is identified, the findings are personally reviewed by our lung nodule nurse navigator. The navigator helps make sure patients receive appropriate follow-up recommendations and assists with coordinating care when needed.

The lung nodule cases then go to one of our pulmonologists, doctors who specializes in lung health. They review the size, shape and appearance of the nodule, along with your medical history and any previous scans.

If you have imaging done at another hospital or clinic, be sure to let your care team know. Comparing old scans can help show whether a nodule is new or has changed over time.

Every lung nodule is different, so follow-up plans are tailored to the person. Some nodules only need a repeat CT scan to make sure they are not changing. Others may require additional testing, including a biopsy.

If a biopsy is needed, pulmonologists at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo can use robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, an advanced technology that allows them to reach many lung nodules with greater precision and less risk than more invasive procedures.

Our goal is simple: to make sure no important finding is overlooked, and no patient falls through the cracks.

You Are Not Alone

Finding a spot on your lung can be concerning, but you do not have to navigate it alone. Our Lung Nodule Clinic team is here to help you understand your results and guide your care.

If you have been told you have a lung nodule, talk with your health care provider or request an appointment with the Lung Nodule Clinic. 

Taking the next step today could make all the difference tomorrow. Because when it comes to lung cancer, early detection truly saves lives.