CT Scan...

[Gigi71]

I recently had a CT scan with a dye, following an X-ray I had in August before starting mtx. The X-ray had showed up a small abnormally in my lower right zone. Apparently I had this last year when I went to another hospital's A & E and the hospital didn't pass it on. I had chest pains then and it was Costochonditus. I reserved a letter today and the CT has recommended another X-ray. Can't really read the writing of my rheumatologist. But it mentions a nodule and something else. I have to go next week. Has anyone else had this.? Hope you can offer some advice..

[helixhelix]

I had a CT scan recently that also showed up a nodule. Only one, so apparently that makes it unlikely that it's rheumatoid nodules. Anyway, the recommendation is to have a repeat scan in a couple of months just to be on the safe side. It is highly likely this is nothing, and is a leftover benign cyst from previous bouts of pneumonia etc etc. However, and especially since I'm an ex-smoker, they want to double check. So I will have it done in due course, but haven't yet booked it in as I'm not particularly anxious about it (here you have to phone and book appointments rather than just getting them in the post). So try not to worry.

[Gigi71 in reply to helixhelix]

Thanks helex, it's funny I wasn't worried as don't have any symptoms, and thought the CT would confirm this. So unsure why they want another X-ray, maybe it's just to be sure. I wish I could read her writing as it says something else. Will try not to worry, so thx again. Hope you keep fine as well. X

[GranAmie in reply to Gigi71]

persistent cough made them stop mtx and scans etc showed 'shadow' on both lungs but cough cleared up in 2 weeks after steroid nose drops so prob post nasal drip. Changed from mtx to ssz nd now settling down but they will continue repeat scans 2 x yearly - lost 23% lung function, they say, but feel fine, still singing and swimming. as ex smoker had to expect some damage anyway so dunno if mtx or gauloises! good luck xx

[Gigi71 in reply to GranAmie]

Ooh goodness sorry to hear that. It's good they keep a check on you though. I have never smoked, so can't be that. I do have a bit of cough, mainly when I lay down at night, but think that's one of my bp meds. Have seen my gp on that and said was ok. Just received an X-ray form and to go to a walk in clinic, hospital not they close. Will go Monday. Thx for your wishes. X

[GranAmie in reply to Gigi71]

xray first step but they will want ct scan to get detail - good luck - maybe post nasal drip tho? steroid nose drops were supper good luck!

[Gigi71 in reply to GranAmie]

Hi GranAmie. I had a CT scan about 3 weeks ago, with a dye, this X-ray is for correlation. I went yesterday for the X-ray and asked the technician if he could read the writing, just about, think it says nodule on the fifth rib. So have to wait till my Rheumy writes to me as to the outcome. I do see the rheumy nurse on the 17 Jan so possible then. Thank you you for your concern. Wishing you a good Christmas and a happy new year. X

[Susiebee31]

I had a ct scan a few years ago because of repeated chest infection, checking for methotrexate damage. My lungs were fine but I had nodules in them. I was reassured by the chest registrar that the were rheumatoid modules and that I would get another ct in 12 months. I duly had it and the nodules were still there and were still the same size and was discharged from them. My lung function was good and no probs. I do get nodules in other places as well, but they did reduce my methotrexate as this can increase nodulosis. I was on hydroxychloroquine but not well controlled , been on cimzia for nearly 5 yrs now. Had RA for 30 yrs.

[Gigi71 in reply to Susiebee31]

Thx Susie. I think it is just a nodule as well. Goodness you have had RA a long time too. Mine is coming up to 32 years soon. It throws up so much else to join it. Stay well and thank you. X