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Lung nodules can be caused by cancer, tuberculosis, or fungal infections. Imaging tests can detect them, and a biopsy can determine the cause. Treatment depends on the root cause, and patients should seek medical advice if experiencing respiratory symptoms.
There are several reasons why the lungs may develop nodules, small bumps on the surface of the lung tissue, including cancer, tuberculosis or a fungal infection. These lesions are typically detected by imaging tests such as x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. In most cases, lung nodules are noncancerous and can be managed easily by treating the root cause of the nodule. Regardless of the cause, pulmonary nodules may appear singly or in clusters or clusters, and the patient may experience shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and other common pulmonary symptoms prior to the diagnosis. People suffering from any type of lung or respiratory problem are advised to seek the advice of their doctor as quickly as possible.
Cancer is the most feared cause of lung nodules by many people. The appearance of these lesions on lung tissue may be an indication of lung cancer, although in many cases the nodules are benign. Once the patient’s medical team discovers the nodules, the doctor may order a biopsy of the affected tissue to further examine the cause. During a biopsy, the patient is sedated and a needle is inserted into the lump to remove a small sample of tissue for laboratory examination. These test results are used to diagnose the cause of the pulmonary nodule and initiate appropriate treatment.
Another common cause of pulmonary nodules is tuberculosis, a lung disease characterized by shortness of breath and coughing. Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne bacterial infection that most commonly affects people with weak or compromised immune systems. In addition to lung imaging tests, a person can easily be tested for tuberculosis with a skin test. Small particles of bacteria are placed just under the top layers of skin, usually the inside of the forearm, and left for 24 hours. If the skin reacts, tuberculosis bacteria are present and the patient should be treated accordingly.
Lung nodules can also be caused by a variety of fungal infections, including histoplasmosis. The spores of this fungus are inhaled and thrive in the nutrient- and oxygen-rich environment of lung tissue. This form of fungus is often found in bird droppings, making city dwellers more prone to contracting this type of infection. With the use of oral medications, doctors are able to kill the infection and restore lung health. Most doctors recommend avoiding large flocks of birds, especially in an urban environment where stool concentrations are likely to be high.
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