Where do multiple ground-glass nodules come from?

Multiple pulmonary ground-glass nodules may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as pneumonia, fibromas, etc. Appropriate management should be based on individual circumstances. The detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Factors

Multifocal pulmonary nodules are a radiological description referring to single or multiple areas of increased density observed during CT imaging. If a patient has previously had a lung infection, inflammatory factors during the healing process may stimulate lung tissue, causing structural changes and scar formation, which can manifest as multiple ground-glass nodules in the lungs. This is considered a normal phenomenon and generally does not affect physical health.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is primarily caused by viral infections and can spread via respiratory droplets. Close contact with an infected individual may allow pathogens to enter the respiratory tract through droplets, triggering an inflammatory response and leading to pneumonia. Inflammatory exudate forms within lung soft tissues; if absorption of this exudate is delayed, calcium deposition may occur, resulting in the aforementioned imaging findings. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for treatment with medications such as cefaclor sustained-release tablets or azithromycin tablets.

2. Fibroma

Fibromas are benign tumors. Although the exact pathogenesis remains unclear, they may be associated with unhealthy lifestyle habits. For example, frequent smoking or overeating may abnormally stimulate pulmonary fibrous tissue, potentially inducing fibroma development. The tumor's density is higher than that of surrounding lung tissue, leading to the observed imaging appearance. It is recommended that patients seek hospital evaluation and consider surgical removal of the tumor.

In addition, multiple ground-glass nodules may also result from other conditions such as pulmonary hamartoma, lung cancer, or colorectal cancer. Regular hospital follow-up examinations are advised to monitor changes in the pulmonary nodules.