Lung cancer often occurs in the right upper lung. Nodules smaller than 3 cm are collectively called pulmonary nodules and can be seen in early lung cancer, metastases, tuberculosis bulbs, inflammatory pseudotumors, and sarcoidosis. If the nodule is considered malignant, it needs to be treated promptly, if it is a tuberculosis ball, it needs anti-tuberculosis treatment, and if it is benign, it can be treated with observation or surgery depending on the size. There are also some ground glass nodules, which can also be reviewed with long-term follow-up.
Treatment varies according to the benign and malignant signs of the nodule; in general, nodules with lobar, burr, or pleural indentation signs are more likely to be malignant and often require further investigation or surgery, whereas for round or round-like nodules with well-defined margins and without lymph node enlargement or significant atelectasis, periodic review at 3-6 month intervals is recommended; and for patients with significant calcification, the diagnosis of tuberculosis is confirmed. In patients with a confirmed diagnosis of tuberculosis, regular antituberculosis treatment is given.
It is critical to define the nature of the nodule. For smaller ground-glass nodules, long-term follow-up is possible, and surgery may be indicated if necessary.