How are pulmonary nodules formed?
Disease description:
I've been suffering from a severe cough and feeling unwell overall. After an examination, I was found to have lung nodules. I would like to know how lung nodules form.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Pulmonary nodules are usually formed as a result of the body's reaction to various irritants, which may include infections, non-cancerous lesions, benign tumors, or malignant tumors. Nodules are defined as abnormal lung lesions less than 3 centimeters in diameter, while those larger than 3 centimeters are generally referred to as masses.
1. Infectious diseases: After bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, scar tissue may form and appear as pulmonary nodules.
2. Inflammatory responses: Certain inflammatory diseases, such as Wegener's granulomatosis or autoimmune diseases, may also lead to nodules.
3. Benign tumors: Benign lung tumors such as fibromas and adenomas can also present as nodules.
4. Malignant tumors: Early-stage lung cancer often appears in the form of nodules, but they may also represent metastatic sites of cancers from other locations.
5. Pneumoconiosis: Long-term exposure to dusty environments, such as asbestos or coal dust, may cause lung fibrosis and nodules.
Note: If a pulmonary nodule is detected, please seek medical attention promptly.
