multiple new nodules on 1st CT scan after surgery

[Susie215]

I just had my 1st CT scan 3 months after my surgery to remove right upper lobe. It showed 3 new modules in right lower lobe. My oncologist was shocked this happened so soon after surgery. I am already supposed to get photo dynamic therapy for cancer in situ and high grade dysplasia at bronchial margins. I am really scared by these new modules. Anyone else have this happen?

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer]

Any chance you did a lot of coughing after your surgery? Coughing can cause nodules. I send hope that this is benign and that someone with similar experience checks in soon.

[Susie215 in reply to Denzie]

how can coughing without an infection cause nodules? Never heard that before

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer in reply to Susie215]

coughing can be a response to something you are allergic to. Other things that can trigger a cough or nodules is exposure to home and industrial cleaning fumes, perfumes and colognes, air pollution, any type of smoke, automobile fumes and more. I hope this helps.

A friend who underwent a lobectomy was told by his doctor the scarring/healing process can trigger coughs

I send hope that it is something benign,

[Susie215 in reply to Denzie]

thanks for your response. I guess I’m still confused though. I always thought that different things brought on a cough but never knew of coughing itself to cause an issue but instead see coughing as the result of an issue. My background is ICU nursing for 25 years but don’t feel it is helping me now. Lol

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer in reply to Susie215]

Ok. I can see I was kind of vague. The things I mention trigger the irritation, the cough, and bring in the nodules. Hope that made it a bit clearer.

[JanetteR57]

I can understand your concern - however not all nodules turn into anything sinister. Have you had a recent chest infection or covid? Infection often involves inflammation known to impact appearance of nodules and lymph nodees- dependent on the size, a follow on scan is usually requested. Do talk to your clinician or nurse about any implications for your treatment. good luck.

[Susie215 in reply to JanetteR57]

yes I have talked to oncologist. She does have me on antibiotics just in case there is infection but we don’t think it is an infection. I have had no symptoms of being sick. The radiologist wrote concern for metastatic disease. Oncologist just said this just doesn’t happen on 1st CT scan. I know not all nodules are cancer but she said they usually are if you already have cancer. She will do another CT scan in 6 weeks

[JanetteR57]

fingers crossed that next scan is ok and things have resolved. in the meantime, try and distract yourself by doing something nice if you can.

[Susie215 in reply to JanetteR57]

Thank you

[Jenniferroseolson]

i am sorry to hear this and hopeful to e nodules are benign. Since my Stage 4 diagnosis eight years ago, science has advanced the treatments and provided new hope for us patients. Best wishes to you

[Susie215 in reply to Jenniferroseolson]

thank you so much

[TutuMa]

sending you good thought and prayer

[Susie215 in reply to TutuMa]

thank you