Lung needle biopsy experience?
I have a solitary lung nodule close to the chest wall which pulmonologist says is in a good location for needle biopsy. The nodule is 1cm., "hot" on the PET, although it has not changed size for six months on CT's. Tumor markers are low at 13. He says it is "concerning". It is in the same location of my former open biopsy. It also may be related to surgery, or an inflammatory process such as infection.
I have always had several small lung nodules in both upper lobes, so it's not the usual for me.
I've had lung mets twice since diagnosis in March 2002. Cleared lungs both times. I've been without chemo or Herceptin since Oct 2005. I have heart issues so had to drop the Herceptin until necessary.
I realize an open surgical biopsy is best for pathology, but having a bad experience with the last open lung biopsy due to asthma and need of a chest tube, I refuse to go that route again. I have an uncomfortable large rigid area 24 hours a day. Apparently muscle/ tendon damage. One of those unfortunate complications of a risky procedure I'm told.
If you've had a lung needle biopsy, please post your experience.
Susan M(PA)
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