PET CT scan

[Ghssan]

I went through ct scan in the past which showed size of nodule is 9ml

The recent scan show very marginal increase i.e less than 1ml

Do I need to have PET scan because of this or shall I wait few months to ensure that the nodule is not expanding MORE

[Bow-19]

I would keep a close check on what’s happening and maybe get a second opinion. Best to know what’s going on x

[JanetteR57]

Scans all involve radiation which carries risks which is why CT and PET are not given more frequently unless there is clear clinical reason why. There are clear guidelines in the UK about managing lung nodules especially with the increase in lung screening projects that are detecting such small nodules. Many are found on scans whilst investigating other clinical issues. These guidelines by the British Thoracic Society and incorporated within the the lung screening protocol (on the Roy Castle lung cancer foundation website). Many lung nodules do not develop into anything sinister which is why they're watched closely - a bit like freckles/moles inside the lung - most moles do not develop into skin cancer and lung nodules are believed to be the same. Always ask your clinician about your own situation if you are unsure as lung treatments now are very personalised.

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Dear Zayna

JeanetteR57 provided an excellent response and I have placed the link below if you wish to look at the protocol guidelines for lung screening of nodules:

england.nhs.uk/wp-content/u...

Section 7 of these guidelines should provide the information you may be looking for.

Be guided by your Specialist doctor and if you do have concerns discuss with your GP.

If you wish you can call us on our Freephone nurse led helpline on 0800 358 7200

Kind regards

The Roy Castle Support Team

[Ghssan in reply to RoyCastleHelpline]

According to Cleveland clinic radiation causes ' radiation heart disease ' as shown in their article under this heading

This is frightening as u need another operation to get rid of radiation first doctors do cardiotoxicity on u followed by imaging and radiation.therapy.

This revelation is frightening

Do u have any experience or questions on this

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Zayna,

I have been trying to contact you this morning.Please call the nurse led helpline on Freephone 0800 358 7200.

Thank you,

All the team at the Roy Castle Helpline

[Ghssan in reply to RoyCastleHelpline]

Thanks