Solitary pulmonary nodule (benign)

Treatment:

Most nodules in patients over 35 years old should be considered potentially malignant until proven otherwise. If the lesion is suspected to be benign, serial chest X-rays may be taken on a regular basis for observation of the lesion in people under 35 years old.

If the affected person is at high risk for lung cancer, surgical removal of the lesion is recommended.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome is generally good for a benign lesion.

Complications:

The nodule could actually be lung cancer.

Calling your health care provider:

(This is found when a chest X-ray is performed for some other reason.)