Early Detection of Lung Nodules Improves Outcomes

Low-Dose Lung CT Screening Program

Many lung nodules are discovered during a CT scan or chest X-ray that has been ordered to diagnose an unrelated condition. Too often, nodules discovered in this way may be larger, more advanced and more difficult to treat. Sometimes referred to as a “spot” on the lung, there are two types of lung nodules:

• Acute lung nodules often occur after an infection and may cause symptoms such as a cough or fever.
• Chronic lung nodules usually do not cause any symptoms. However, these are the type that are more likely to cause health problems and have the potential develop into cancer.

This is why University Hospitals offers low-dose CT screenings as part of our Lung Nodule Program. We evaluate high-risk individuals, such as long-term smokers – both current and former – and screen them to look for suspicious nodules before they become problematic.

Our experienced team of pulmonary specialists have advanced expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of lung nodules. They are highly skilled at identifying both benign pulmonary nodules that can be treated conservatively and suspicious nodules that may signal lung cancer. Our team works swiftly to perform the tests and evaluations needed to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment without delay. Additional diagnostic procedures to evaluate the nodule/mass and the nearby lymph nodes may include:

• Biopsy of the suspicious tissue
• Bronchoscopy
• Endobronchial ultrasound
• Navigational Bronchoscopy

Our team is dedicated to providing these early detection opportunities for our patients. If our pulmonary specialists have reason to suspect cancer, they promptly collaborate with lung cancer specialists from our renowned UH Seidman Cancer Center to ensure the most effective treatment options are offered without delay.

Early Lung Nodule Detection with Low-dose CT Scans

The earlier we identify lung cancer, the stronger the outcomes. That’s why University Hospitals offers low-dose computed tomography (CT) screenings as part of our Lung Nodule Program. We evaluate high-risk individuals, such as long-term smokers, and screen them to look for suspicious nodules before they become problematic.

Our team works together to provide these early detection opportunities for our patients. If our pulmonary specialists have reason to suspect cancer, they collaborate with lung cancer specialists from UH Seidman Cancer Center.

UH Seidman Cancer Center’s Team of Lung Health Specialists

University Hospitals gathers a team of specialists to review individual cases of lung cancer, including:

• Thoracic surgeons
• Interventional pulmonologists
• Radiation oncologists
• Interventional radiologists

Additional team members of your lung cancer team include counselors, nurse navigators, pathologists and any other provider that is needed for your unique condition. Together, they meet regularly to review and discuss the results of diagnostic tests and make recommendations for patient care. Lung cancer treatment plans may include:

• Further testing and imaging before deciding whether to perform surgery.
• Minimally invasive lung surgery to remove the nodule, depending on its location and appearance.

Learn More about Expert Lung Nodule Care at UH

For more information our specialized pulmonary care at University Hospitals, contact one of our pulmonary specialists at one of our convenient locations. Or, learn more about resources and therapies available at UH Seidman Cancer Center.

Low-Dose Lung CT Screening Guidelines

The screening guidelines for a low-dose lung CT scan are:

• Between the ages 50 – 77
• Has a 20 pack-year smoking history (20 years of smoking a pack a day)
• Current smoker, or has quit within the past 15 years
• In good health – no new cough or unexplained weight loss
• Willing to do the follow-up testing and treatment, if needed
• Has not had a chest CT (CAT) scan in the last year
• Written physician order

Do You Have an Order?

In order to receive a low-dose lung CT screening test you must have an order from a physician.