Most people don’t have any symptoms of benign lung tumors. Healthcare providers discover more than 90% of nodules by accident while performing a chest X-ray or CT scan for some other condition.
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If you do have symptoms, they may include:
There are many possible causes of benign lung nodules or masses. These causes may include:
In some cases, there are no known causes.
Healthcare providers usually discover benign lung nodules and tumors during a chest X-ray or CT scan for another condition. The appearance of the nodule on the CT scan is often enough for a provider to determine that it’s benign. If a provider can’t determine the cause of a nodule from a CT scan, they may perform a bronchoscopy to take a closer look at the nodule or mass and get a tissue sample (biopsy). During a bronchoscopy, the provider slides a scope with a camera at the end down your throat and into your lungs. You’ll get a sedative before the procedure, so you’re unaware of what’s happening.
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The provider may get a tissue sample during the bronchoscopy. Or they may get a tissue sample by using a CT scan to insert a needle into the mass to extract a small amount of tissue.
A provider will also use the following information to make a diagnosis:
In most cases, benign lung nodules and masses don’t require treatment. A healthcare provider will recommend taking a series of X-rays and CT scans over a period of months to years to watch for any changes in tumor size or features.
No, a healthcare provider doesn’t have to remove a benign tumor. They may only recommend removing a benign lung tumor if it changes.
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A healthcare provider may recommend a biopsy or surgery to remove the tumor if they aren’t certain that it’s benign or harmless, or if:
You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for about a week if you have a biopsy or surgery to remove a benign lung tumor.
If you and a healthcare provider agree to simply monitor (“watch and wait”) your lung tumor, it’s important that you schedule regular follow-up appointments. Be sure to attend every appointment. If you have to miss an appointment, be sure to reschedule.
If you have surgery to remove a benign lung tumor and a provider completely removes it, you usually don’t need additional treatment.
Benign lung tumors are usually harmless. A healthcare provider can tell you what to expect if you have an underlying condition that causes benign lung tumors to form.
Though benign lung tumors don’t usually cause major health problems, the best thing you can do is be aware of changes in your body. Talk to a healthcare provider if you develop symptoms that affect your breathing or cause long-lasting (chronic) coughing. You should also schedule an appointment with a provider if you notice new lumps or bumps that appear to grow.
If you smoke or vape, it’s a good idea to quit.
Call a healthcare provider if you:
Questions to ask your provider include:
It can be scary hearing that you have a “spot on your lung.” Feeling anxious or nervous is normal, even if there’s only a small chance you have lung cancer. But most small nodules are benign and aren’t cancer. Even in the worst-case scenario — the nodule turns out to be cancer — it’s likely at an early stage and very treatable. Most small nodules don’t cause noticeable symptoms, so a healthcare provider will want to monitor your benign lung tumor with imaging tests over the next few months or years to ensure it’s not growing or changing. Reach out to a provider if you have any questions or concerns.
Last reviewed on 10/19/2023.
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