Questions about CT Scan Report

[csutherland]

Jerry picked up the hard copy of his Imaging Report yesterday. I could use some help from any of you who are medically astute.

Not a whole lot was made of the aneurysm. If anything, it is about 1 mm smaller than before. Then it goes on to say: "There are a few subcentimeter right paratracheal lymph nodes. Subcarinal nodal calcifications are present. There are 1.0 cm left and subcentimeter right hilar lymph nodes. No significant pericardial or pleural effusion is demonstrated. Examination of the lung windows reveals a few areas of dependent and peripheral atelectasis."

I understand the part about no pericardial effusion. I've determined via searching the web that "atelectasis" is small areas of collapsed lung, usually not serious. It's the part about the lymph nodes has me puzzled. It seems that 1.0 cm is somewhat larger than normal. I just don't understand why the lymph nodes were even mentioned. All previous tests have focused only on the arteries.

He has had prostate cancer, squamous cell carcinoma on his nose, and was diagnosed in 2001 with Mycosis Fungoides, a cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. That diagnosis was later put into some question, as the skin lesions have cleared up.

So, am I borrowing trouble?

 

[Ann L]

Hi Celia,
If it were me, I'd take a copy of your husband's report to the doctor who originally diagnosed his previous lymph problem without hesitation. At least it will be specifically examined and hopefully you'll press for answers. I've recently become totally convinced that we must be diligent as own best advocates. Good luck.

 

[Marty]

? lymph nodes

? lymph nodes

Those lymph nodes may or may not be clinically significant. I favor them being normal. Radiologists do not always mention nodes that size in their reports. The current study should be compared directly with any old films that might be available( not old reports) and an addendum report submitted. If the nodes are new then a repeat CT in six months should be done to see if the nodes are increasing in size or becoming more numerous.