Your report will list any abnormalities that were recognized by our radiologists. There will be general recommendations for follow-up scans (for small nodules) or a visit with your doctor or lung specialist (for larger nodules or other significant findings).

Reports revealing any unexpected results like pneumonia or emphysema should be taken to your doctor with the results of your pulmonary function tests. Our center can always consult with your doctor and make copies of film if necessary. For patients at high risk for lung cancer (see who should have test), it is generally recommended that screening CT should be done every 1-2 years.

For patients with small noncalcified nodules (5 mm or less in size), repeat scans at same facility are recommended at 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months to look for changes in number and size of nodules. We have lowered the price of such follow-up scans. They are usually covered by insurance.

Larger nodules (especially calcified) or multiple nodules (over 6) deserve examination by a lung specialist.

For an excellent diagram of suggested follow-up care, review the flowchart at http://www.lifescore.com/lungwhite.htm (and scrolling half way down the page) developed by the doctors at Lifescore.