Lung Nodule Education Center
If you’ve recently been told you have a lung nodule, you’re not alone. This educational resource, created by Dr. Ordessia Charran, is designed to help you better understand what lung nodules are, how they are evaluated, and what to expect during your care journey.
Welcome to Your Lung Nodule Journey
Learning that you have a lung nodule can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone.
Dr. Ordessia Charran created this educational series to guide you through each step of the evaluation process—from understanding an abnormal chest X-ray to learning about CT scans, biopsies, Valley Fever, treatment options, and what happens next.
Whether you've recently been told you have a lung nodule or are seeking a second opinion, this resource is designed to help you feel informed and confident before your consultation.
- What You'll Learn
- What a lung nodule is
- Common causes
- How lung nodules are evaluated
- When biopsies are needed
- Treatment options
- Frequently asked questions
Created by a Triple Board-Certified Physician
Dr. Ordessia Charran, MD, FCCP
Board Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and Critical Care Medicine.
- To help make your visit as productive as possible, please bring the following if available:
- Your CT scan report
- A copy of your imaging (CD or digital file)
- Previous chest imaging
- Any prior biopsy or pathology reports (if applicable)
- A list of your current medications
- Any questions or concerns you'd like to discuss
Abnormal Chest X-Ray? Here's What Happens Next
Understanding the Next Step
Hearing that your chest X-ray is “abnormal” can be concerning, but it does not automatically mean you have lung cancer. In many cases, a chest X-ray simply identifies an area that needs a closer look.
In this video, Dr. Charran explains why a CT scan is usually the next step and how physicians use it to evaluate a possible lung nodule before recommending treatment.
Understanding the Next Step
Hearing that your chest X-ray is “abnormal” can be concerning, but it does not automatically mean you have lung cancer. In many cases, a chest X-ray simply identifies an area that needs a closer look.
In this video, Dr. Charran explains why a CT scan is usually the next step and how physicians use it to evaluate a possible lung nodule before recommending treatment.
- Key Takeaways
- An abnormal chest X-ray does not automatically mean lung cancer.
- A CT scan provides a much clearer picture than a chest X-ray.
- Many lung nodules are benign.
- Your age, medical history, smoking history, and other risk factors all help guide treatment decisions.
Can a Lung Nodule Disappear?
Introduction
Not every lung nodule behaves the same way. Some disappear completely, while others remain unchanged for years.
Dr. Charran explains what changes in a lung nodule may mean and why follow-up imaging is sometimes recommended instead of immediate treatment.
- Key Takeaways
- Some nodules resolve on their own.
- Others remain stable for years.
- Your physician evaluates changes over time.
- Follow-up imaging is often an important part of care.
A Spot Was Found on Your Lung—Now What?
Introduction
Being told that a spot was found on your lung can be frightening. Fortunately, many lung nodules are not cancer.
In this video, Dr. Charran explains the first steps physicians take to determine what a lung nodule may represent and how the evaluation process begins.
- Key Takeaways
- Most lung nodules are not cancer.
- Additional imaging helps determine the next steps.
- Each patient's evaluation is individualized.
Understanding the Next Steps in Lung Nodule Evaluation
Introduction
After a lung nodule is discovered, your physician considers several important factors before recommending treatment or follow-up.
This video explains how specialists evaluate lung nodules and decide what happens next.
- Key Takeaways
- Size matters.
- Appearance matters.
- Your risk factors matter.
- Every patient receives an individualized plan.
You've Been Told You Have a Lung Nodule What Should You Do?
Introduction
Receiving this news can be overwhelming. Dr. Charran discusses practical first steps after learning you have a lung nodule and explains how to prepare for your consultation.
- Key Takeaways
- Don't panic.
- Gather previous imaging.
- Ask questions.
- Schedule an evaluation with a pulmonary specialist.
Why Don't We Simply Remove Every Lung Nodule?
Introduction
Many patients ask why lung nodules aren’t removed immediately. Dr. Charran explains why careful evaluation often provides a safer approach than surgery.
- Key Takeaways
- Surgery isn't always the best first step.
- Many nodules are benign.
- Every procedure has risks.
- Treatment should be individualized.
When a Lung Nodule Is Actually a Lung Infection
Introduction
Not every lung nodule represents cancer. In certain parts of the country, infections such as fungal diseases can appear very similar on imaging.
- Key Takeaways
- Lung infections can mimic lung cancer.
- Geography and exposure history matter.
- Additional testing may be needed.
Could It Be Valley Fever?
Introduction
Valley Fever is common in the Southwest and can sometimes appear as a lung nodule.
Dr. Charran explains why recognizing Valley Fever is important during the evaluation process.
- Key Takeaways
- Valley Fever can resemble lung cancer.
- It is common in Nevada and surrounding areas.
- Proper diagnosis helps avoid unnecessary procedures.
One of the Biggest Myths About Lung Biopsies
Introduction
Many patients worry that biopsies spread cancer or should always be avoided. Dr. Charran explains when a biopsy is recommended and why it can be an important part of reaching the correct diagnosis.
- Key Takeaways
- Biopsies do not automatically spread cancer.
- A biopsy is only recommended when appropriate.
- Accurate diagnosis helps guide the best treatment.
Ready to Discuss Your Lung Nodule?
If you’ve recently been told you have a lung nodule or would like a second opinion, Dr. Ordessia Charran provides comprehensive pulmonary evaluations tailored to your individual needs.
Coming Soon...
Lung Nodule Patient Guide
A downloadable educational guide designed to help patients better understand lung nodules, follow-up recommendations, and treatment options.
Coming Soon
Educational Disclaimer
Educational Purposes Only
The information provided on this page, including videos, graphics, and written content, is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is designed to help patients better understand lung nodules and related pulmonary conditions.
The content on this page does not constitute medical advice, does not establish a physician-patient relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for individualized medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.
Every patient is unique. If you have questions about your health or have been diagnosed with a lung nodule, please consult with your physician or schedule an appointment with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.
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