Pulmonary nodule measuring 6 mm in size, 30-year smoking history, is treatment needed?
Disease description:
I am 55 years old and have smoked for 30 years. During a physical examination, a 6mm small nodule was found in my lung. I have no other discomfort. Do I need treatment?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
A 6mm lung nodule was detected, along with a 30-year history of smoking, making the situation relatively complex. Long-term smoking is a high-risk factor for lung cancer. This small nodule could be a benign lesion, such as an inflammatory nodule, tuberculoma, or hamartoma, but there is also a possibility of malignancy. Generally, nodules smaller than 8mm are more often managed by observation and follow-up. However, the altered pulmonary microenvironment caused by smoking may promote nodule progression.
Quitting smoking can reduce further lung damage and lower the risk of nodule malignancy. It is recommended to undergo a follow-up thin-slice chest CT scan after 3-6 months to monitor changes in the nodule's size, morphology, and density. If the nodule remains unchanged, the follow-up interval can be extended; if the nodule increases in size or exhibits malignant features such as spiculation, lobulation, or pleural traction, further evaluation is needed.
