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Expert Lung Nodule Care at UPMC Passavant
The UPMC Lung Nodule Program includes pulmonary specialists, thoracic surgeons, and radiologists who work together to quickly develop and implement a treatment plan when lung nodules are detected. The team provides:
• A thorough review of chest imaging and evaluation of the lung nodule.
• Diagnostic and treatment plans specifically designed to meet your care needs.
• State-of-the-art diagnostic technologies.
What Is a Lung Nodule?
A lung nodule, sometimes called a pulmonary nodule, is a small spot or growth in the lung that appears on imaging studies such as a chest X-ray or CT scan.
Most lung nodules are benign and may result from prior infections, inflammation, scar tissue, or other noncancerous conditions. However, some nodules require further evaluation based on their size, appearance, growth, or a patient’ s medical history and risk factors.
HOW ARE LUNG NODULES FOUND?
Incidental Findings Because lung nodules rarely cause symptoms, they are often discovered during imaging performed for an unrelated medical concern.
In some cases, symptoms that prompt imaging may include:
• Persistent cough.
• Shortness of breath.
• Chest discomfort.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Coughing up blood.
When a nodule is identified, the UPMC Lung Nodule Program helps coordinate appropriate follow-up testing and specialty care when needed.
Lung Screenings
For people at higher risk, an annual low-dose CT screening can help identify lung nodules before symptoms develop. This type of scan uses significantly less radiation than a standard CT scan and can detect small nodules that may require monitoring.