Is lung cancer transformed from lung nodules?

Mar 25, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Qifeng

Introduction

Lung cancer generally develops from lung nodules. A lung nodule refers to a focal, nearly round, high-density solid or subsolid pulmonary shadow measuring 3 cm or less in diameter on imaging, which may be caused by infectious, neoplastic, or non-infectious factors. Some lung nodules are inherently malignant; even if small, they may progress to lung cancer if not treated promptly.

Lung cancer generally develops from pulmonary nodules.

A pulmonary nodule refers to a focal, nearly round, high-density solid or subsolid shadow in the lung tissue observed on imaging, with a diameter less than or equal to 3 cm. It may be caused by infectious, neoplastic, or non-infectious factors. Common symptoms include chest pain, breathing difficulties, and coughing. Some pulmonary nodules are inherently malignant; even small nodules can progress into lung cancer if not treated promptly. Therefore, after detecting a pulmonary nodule, its benign or malignant nature should be preliminarily assessed based on size, shape, presence of spiculations, and lobulation. Once the characteristics of the nodule are determined, active treatment is necessary to prevent disease progression due to delayed intervention.

Additionally, long-term smoking is a common cause of lung cancer. Compared to non-smokers, smokers have a tenfold higher risk of developing lung cancer. The earlier a person starts smoking, the longer the duration, and the greater the amount smoked, the higher the incidence of lung cancer. Patients are advised to quit smoking and avoid alcohol in daily life to prevent worsening of their condition.

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