Lung Mass
Learn about Lung Mass including its common causes, symptoms, and treatments.
What is a Lung Mass?
A lung mass is an abnormal growth in the lungs that is larger than 3 centimeters in diameter.
Lung Mass growths smaller than 3 centimeters are called nodules. Lung masses can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). About 4-5% of lung masses are cancerous. Your doctor can perform diagnostic tests to determine if a mass is cancer such as X-rays, CT scans, and biopsies.
Am I Eligible For A free Lung Cancer Screening?
Use the form to calculate your Pack Years to determine your possible risk factor based on your smoking history. Oneida Health is an ACR designated Lung Cancer Screening Center offering Low Dose CT scans that can detect lung cancer early.Symptoms of a Lung Mass
Symptoms of a lung mass may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Coughing for a long time
- Coughing up blood
- Fever
Possible Causes of Lung Mass
Some possible causes of a Lung Mass may be:
- Benign lung tumors
- Lipoid Pneumonia, a rare lung disease
- Lung abscesses
- Lung infections
- Arteriovenous (AV) malformations
- Pulmonary artery aneurysms
- Lung Cancer
- Other cancers
Risk Factors of Lung Mass
Anyone is at risk of developing a lung mass. A mass is more likely to be cancerous if one or more of the following risk factors are present:
- Current or former smokers
- Anyone over 65 years old
- Anyone who received radiation treatment to the chest
- Exposure to radon. asbestos, or secondhand smoke
Complications from Lung Mass
Complications from Lung Mass may include:
- Lung cancer
- Difficulty breathing if a benign mass presses on an airway
How to Prevent Lung Mass
There is no way to prevent lung masses. If you are a smoker, quitting is your best way to prevent lung masses from becoming cancerous. If you are exposed to dangerous fumes or chemicals at your workplace, wearing protective equipment can help reduce your chances of lung masses becoming cancerous.
Learn about the Smoking Cessation program at Oneida Health.