Pulmonary Nodules and Lung Cancer Screening Guidelines
A lung nodule is a mass that is less than 30 mm.
Nodules less than 6 mm with no risk factors no follow up needed. Those with risk factors can get a follow up CT in 12 months.
Nodules 6-8 mm repeat CT in 6-12 months then another one in 18-24 months.
Nodules >8 mm consider CT at 3 months, PET-CT, or tissue sampling.
Adults aged 50 to 80 years who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years, annual screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is recommended.
Risk factors for lung cancer include:
- Age above 65 years.
- Active, passive or previous smoker.
- Exposure to radiation.
- Family history of lung cancer.
- Exposure to Radon, Asbestos, diesel exhaust, or inhaled chemicals, such as arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, silica, vinyl chloride, nickel compounds, chromium compounds, coal products, mustard gas, and chloromethyl ethers.
You may also want to further read about cancer screening guidelines using this book.
This post covers the points you need to know for your board exams as well as for teaching residents on the daily rounds. Medical professionals can't use the information here to treat their patients nor people can use the information her to treat themselves. If you are having any medical issues, contact your local emergency services. Please refer to your doctor for medical advice.