Expert Lung Nodule Evaluation and Monitoring in Warren, MI
At Pulmonary & Medical Associates, we specialize in the accurate evaluation, diagnosis, and monitoring of lung nodules—small masses of tissue commonly discovered during chest X-rays or CT scans. While most nodules are non-cancerous, proper assessment is essential to rule out serious conditions, including lung cancer.
What Are Lung Nodules?
Lung nodules are small, round growths in the lungs, often less than 3 centimeters in size. They are usually found incidentally during imaging done for unrelated reasons. Although many nodules are benign, caused by past infections or inflammation, some may indicate early-stage lung cancer or other serious conditions.
Common Causes of Lung Nodules
- Previous infections such as tuberculosis or fungal infections
- Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis
- Benign tumors
- Malignant tumors, particularly in individuals with a history of smoking
How We Diagnose and Monitor Lung Nodules
Our pulmonary specialists evaluate the size, shape, location, and growth pattern of your nodule. Based on your risk factors, we may recommend:
- Advanced imaging like high-resolution CT scans
- PET scans to assess metabolic activity
- Bronchoscopy or biopsy for tissue analysis
- Scheduled follow-up scans to monitor changes
We follow current clinical guidelines to provide a precise diagnosis while minimizing unnecessary procedures.
When to Be Concerned
Certain features may suggest a higher risk of malignancy, such as:
- Nodules larger than 8 millimeters
- Irregular or spiculated edges
- A history of smoking
- Rapid growth seen on follow-up scans
If you fall into a higher-risk group, we’ll create a personalized care plan and take prompt action as needed.
Schedule Your Evaluation Today
If you’ve been told you have a lung nodule or have questions about a recent scan, we’re here to help. Call (586) 751-8844 or visit pulmandmedassoc.com to schedule a consultation with our lung care specialists.
