After your lung screening, a radiologist looks for spots, also known as nodules on your scan. These spots indicate small lumps of tissue that many people have. Both you and your primary care provider will receive results within three weeks.
You may receive one of the following lung screening result types.
The radiologist did not notice anything of concern from your scan, but regular screening is important to monitor for changes as you age.
You will receive a reminder letter when it is time to screen again in two years.
The radiologist considers you to have a low chance of lung cancer, but recommends continued monitoring of your lungs.
You will receive a reminder letter when it is time to screen again in one year.
The radiologist has noticed some findings from your scan that may be related to inflammation, infection or a need to monitor an area more closely. We would like to check again in 3 months to see if there are any changes.
You will be contacted to arrange a follow-up LDCT scan in 3 months.
Your lung scan has revealed some spots that require further investigation. This does not mean that you have cancer, but it is important that you attend all follow-ups.
You will be contacted shortly by a chest specialist to arrange for follow-up, which may include more scans or a biopsy.
Your lung scan has revealed findings that are not related to lung cancer but require follow-up.
Your primary care provider will contact you for follow-up.
Your next steps are determined by the size and appearance of any spots found on your lung scan. Depending on your results, your next steps may include one or more of the following:
- Follow-up low-dose CT scan of your lungs
- Lung biopsy
A lung biopsy is when a small sample of lung tissue is removed so that it can be looked at more closely under a microscope. This procedure usually takes place at a hospital. Lung biopsies can be done in different ways; with a small needle, under a CT scanner, or with a small scope and with local freezing to your throat. You may feel some soreness or discomfort after the procedure and may need to rest for 1 to 2 days.
