Authored by Henderson Pulmonology
Lung nodules are one of the most common findings seen on chest imaging, and for many patients, the phrase alone can create immediate fear. You may have had a CT scan or X-ray for a cough, a follow-up exam, or even as part of routine screening, only to be told that a small spot appeared on your lungs. At Henderson Pulmonology, we want you to know that most lung nodules are not cancerous. In fact, a very large percentage are completely benign.
As the top pulmonologist in Las Vegas, Dr. Kevin Tsui evaluates lung nodules every day and helps patients understand what is happening inside their lungs with clarity and compassion. This guide explains what a lung nodule actually is, how it forms, what testing looks like, and when it is time to see the best pulmonologist in Henderson, Nevada for further evaluation. Our goal is to provide the patients of Southern Nevada with clear and trustworthy information from a team that specializes in Las Vegas Pulmonology and advanced lung care.
What Is a Lung Nodule?
A lung nodule is a small, round, or oval shaped spot on the lung that is usually found by accident during imaging. Most nodules are less than three centimeters in size. Anything larger than that is generally classified as a lung mass, which requires a different level of concern and evaluation. These nodules can be made of tissue, inflammation, infection, or scar tissue, and they often cause no symptoms at all.
Lung nodules can form for many reasons, and most are not dangerous. In fact, studies show that more than half of adults will develop at least one small nodule in their lifetime. Many of these nodules never change in size, never cause discomfort, and never require treatment.
How Lung Nodules Are Discovered
Most people only learn they have a lung nodule because it shows up on an X-ray or CT scan done for an unrelated reason. Common scenarios include:
- Imaging after a cough or respiratory infection
- Screening for lung cancer
- Imaging after injury or trauma
- Tests before surgery
- Routine health evaluations
A lung nodule is usually not visible to the naked eye and cannot be felt. Because there are no symptoms in most cases, imaging is the only way to detect it. This is one reason why many patients are surprised when they hear the word nodule for the first time.
What Lung Nodules Are Not
One of the most important clarifications for patients is simple. A lung nodule is not automatically cancer. Many people immediately assume the worst when they see or hear anything abnormal on their scan. Our team at Henderson Pulmonology works to ease this fear by explaining what lung nodules are not.
A nodule is not always a tumor.
Many nodules form from infections, inflammation, or scar tissue that has healed.
A nodule is not always new.
Some patients have had nodules for years without knowing it. They may have been there long before an imaging test detected them.
A nodule is not always a sign of disease.
Benign nodules are incredibly common and can form for reasons that have nothing to do with cancer or chronic lung conditions.
Understanding these facts helps patients approach the evaluation process with a clearer mind and less anxiety.
Common Causes of Lung Nodules
Lung nodules have many possible causes. Some of the most common include:
Past or Current Infection
Infections are among the leading causes of lung nodules. These nodules are often the body’s way of healing or containing an infection. Examples include:
- Fungal infections such as histoplasmosis or coccidioidomycosis
- Tuberculosis
- Bacterial or viral respiratory infections
These nodules often calcify over time, making them appear dense on imaging, which is a sign that they are benign.
Inflammation
Autoimmune conditions, chronic inflammation, or exposure to environmental irritants can lead to small inflammatory nodules.
Scar Tissue
Old injuries or healed infections frequently leave behind scar tissue that appears as a nodule on a scan.
Benign Tumors
Not all tumors are cancerous. A benign growth called a hamartoma is one of the most common noncancerous lung tumors.
Malignancy
While cancer is one possible cause, it accounts for a much smaller percentage of nodules, especially when the nodule is small. Dr. Kevin Tsui, known as the best pulmonologist in Henderson, Nevada, emphasizes that the majority of lung nodules are not cancerous. However, careful evaluation by a specialist is essential to determine the likelihood of malignancy and the appropriate next steps.
Who Is at Higher Risk for Concerning Nodules?
Even though most nodules are harmless, certain factors increase the need for closer evaluation. These include:
- Age over 50
- History of smoking
- Exposure to radon or asbestos
- Personal or family history of lung cancer
- Larger nodule size
- Nodules with irregular or spiculated borders
If you fall into one or more of these categories, you should seek evaluation from a lung specialist with advanced diagnostic training. Henderson Pulmonology offers precise and comprehensive evaluation for all types of lung nodules.
How Pulmonologists Evaluate Lung Nodules
When you meet with Dr. Kevin Tsui for a lung nodule evaluation, the process is personalized, thorough, and based on the latest medical guidelines.
Review of Imaging
The first step is reviewing the CT scan or X-ray to determine size, shape, density, and any previous comparisons. A nodule that has not changed over several years is almost always benign.
Assessment of Risk Factors
Your history, lifestyle, symptoms, and medical background help determine whether the nodule should be monitored or investigated further.
Additional Imaging
High resolution CT scans often provide better detail and help clarify what kind of nodule it may be.
PET Scan
A PET scan may be ordered if the nodule has suspicious features. This test helps identify unusual metabolic activity.
Biopsy or Bronchoscopy
If the nodule needs further evaluation, a biopsy can be performed. Henderson Pulmonology uses advanced bronchoscopy techniques to obtain tissue samples safely and accurately when needed.
Surveillance and Follow Up
Many nodules do not require a procedure. Instead, they are monitored over time with repeat imaging. If the nodule does not grow, the risk of cancer is extremely low.
Symptoms of Lung Nodules
Most lung nodules cause no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Chronic cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Recurrent infections
These symptoms do not necessarily mean the nodule is malignant, but they do indicate the need for evaluation by a lung specialist.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
Even though most nodules are benign, prompt evaluation helps catch the rare cases of early lung cancer when treatment is most effective. Small nodules that are malignant have the highest chance of successful treatment when discovered and managed early.
Patients in Southern Nevada trust Henderson Pulmonology because of our advanced diagnostic capabilities and the experience of Dr. Kevin Tsui, widely recognized as the top pulmonologist in Las Vegas for complex lung conditions.
When to See a Pulmonologist
You should schedule an appointment with Henderson Pulmonology if:
- A lung nodule was found during imaging
- You have a history of smoking
- You are experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms
- You have multiple nodules or unusual imaging findings
- You want expert evaluation and peace of mind
Our team is here to guide you step by step and provide clear answers you can trust.
Your Partner in Lung Health
Henderson Pulmonology provides comprehensive care for lung nodules, COPD, asthma, pulmonary hypertension, sleep apnea, and a full range of respiratory conditions. With advanced diagnostics and a patient centered approach, we support the health of individuals throughout Henderson, Las Vegas, and the surrounding regions.
Whether your lung nodule requires monitoring or further evaluation, you deserve an expert who will walk you through every option with clarity. Dr. Kevin Tsui and our entire team are committed to providing the highest standard of care in Las Vegas Pulmonology.
Request an Appointment
If you have been told you have a lung nodule or you want an expert evaluation, we invite you to schedule a visit with Henderson Pulmonology. Request an Appointment today and get the answers you need with confidence.