Ground glass nodules

[janno]

I am very concerned about being told I have a ground glass nodule. I am to have a follow-up CT scan in a year I have read very confusing information and I am wondering if anyone has any experience with such nodules.

[Bevvy]

I haven’t had a nodule but my understanding is that many nodules are nothing, whilst some are to do with a previous or current infection. I do understand though the panic that it might be something more sinister. Certainly I would leap to that conclusion! However the fact they are waiting a year to redo scan and not suggesting a biopsy suggests to me that they aren’t concerned.

[janno in reply to Bevvy]

Thank you Bevvy. You have just made me feel less anxious.

[Alberta56]

Phone the Asthmalung Helpline and ask them to clarify the information.

[teddyd]

I also have nodules in my lungs. After they showed up on a Ct scan I was told I would get a follow up Ct scan, I think it was 6 months after they were identified ( might have been longer) Because there has been no change in size etc I was told it was caused by previous infections and was nothing to worry about .

[janno in reply to teddyd]

Thank you for your reply. It definitely helps me feel more positive.

[katieoxo60]

Hello janno , sorry for delay in reply had a crash on my computer this morning due to power cut. When I had ground glass appearance in lungs they said infection possibly , but I had to be Xrayed in three months and spent 2 years visiting chest clinic . That was around 16 years ago I still have the same in my lung plus a few more oddities. I use three inhalers . But its presumed it was not the big C . Its very stressful when things are not clear but if you don't have to be scanned for a year I think things must be OK and not need any treatment. My freind had lung scarring from infection but she lived into her nineties so I hope that gives you faith that some things can be dealt with with help . I hear that some people have nodules removed but I have never heard of ground glass nodules before . But ground glass appearance can mean infection I believe. I had a full batch of tests for cancer due to the appearance but no definate diagnosis was ever clinically reached . It was put down to scarring from past infection and still remains . Every best wish .

[janno in reply to katieoxo60]

Katie

Thank you for your reply. It is very helpful and encouraging.

[jackdup]

I have the same and have been having follow-up CT scans for the last three years. The doctor feels it is from past infections and possible inflammation. I am scheduled for another CT scan at the end of March.

[janno in reply to jackdup]

Thanks, I appreciate your reply as well as the replies from others. It helps to know what the causes can be.

[janno in reply to jackdup]

Since I had a cold/cough prior to the CT scan this could also have been the reason. I did not get a detailed explanation from my Dr., other than she was not concerned and to have a followup. I know I need to ask more questions of my doctors.

[jackdup in reply to janno]

It never hurts to ask more questions or to get a clarification when you are unsure. Doctors often take some things for granted as they are familiar with them but sometimes don’t realize not everyone is.

[Pachira]

I believe ground glass is inflammation. The nodules are compacted sputum so if your pulmonologist has recommended airway clearance, you will benefit immensely. I have been diagnosed with asthma, Bronchiectasis, NTM (Mac) and cavitary nodules. I’m using a nebulizer to inhale abuterol and 3% hypertonic saline. I’ve also started taking NAC to hopefully help thin the mucus and he has me inhale a powder fluticasone propionate with salmeterol 2X per day. I’m 74 with stage 4 breast cancer so I don’t think the big 3 antibiotics will be a choice for me. Are you short of breath? From what I’ve read it seems that treatment on the NHS is more challenging than here in the US bu there’s lots of sites to help. The Mayo Clinic is very good but of course you’d really be best to start with your pulmonologist. Good luck Chris

[janno in reply to Pachira]

I only get short of breath on occasion if I walk in the cold (mild asthma) and I do use an inhaler. I have been taking NAC for years and have no mucus. I thank you for your reply and wish you all the best. Janno

[Badbessie]

As others have stated nodules are normally a result of infection and can have little clinical significance. I am just wondering if you have had COVID as Ground-Glass Opacities are more prevalent following COVID than other infections. However GGOs can be indicative of other disease processes and the standard follow up is three years to look for changes. Obviously you are worried (like many on this forum when first diagnosed) but more than likely it is benign. The good thing is that even if it does change/grow anything sinister would have been caught very early which improves your prognosis vastly.

[janno in reply to Badbessie]

Thank you Badbessie. I have never had Covid but do have mild asthma. In retrospect, perhaps I should have mentioned that when I first posted my concern, but it rarely causes me any problems. My follow-up is in a year, not three, so it is my thought that the Dr. is taking that into consideration.

[Badbessie in reply to janno]

Sorry I may not have made myself clear. Normally this problem is followed up for 3 years. Some people have six monthly or yearly consultations for three years to monitor any progression or if it remains the same.

[janno in reply to Badbessie]

Thanks, I should have realized that is what you meant. I was not thinking clearly. All the best.

[50shadesofgrey]

I haven’t been explained my results but on my letter it says there is subtle ground glass opacity on a mosaic pattern suggesting obstructive small airways disease. Not sure if that helps x

[janno in reply to 50shadesofgrey]

Thanks for your reply. Every reply helps.

[dotw1]

Ground glass appearance in the lungs could be a sign of pulmonary fibrosis. Search actionpf.org/information -support for more information

[janno]

Thank you, I will look at the article.