Lung Nodule Clinic

Expert Evaluation and Management of Pulmonary Nodules

If you’ve been told you have a lung nodule, you’re not alone. Lung nodules are extremely common—they’re found in up to 50% of adults who have a CT scan of their chest. The good news is that the vast majority of lung nodules are benign (not cancerous). At Florida Lung & Sleep Associates, our Lung Nodule Clinic provides specialized evaluation to give you answers and peace of mind.

What Is a Lung Nodule?

A lung nodule is a small spot or growth in the lung, usually less than 3 centimeters (about 1.2 inches) in diameter. These spots are often discovered incidentally when you have a CT scan or X-ray for another reason, such as a heart evaluation, after an injury, or during lung cancer screening.

While finding a nodule can be concerning, most lung nodules are caused by:

  • Previous infections (such as pneumonia or fungal infections)
  • Scar tissue from past inflammation
  • Benign growths
  • Lymph nodes within the lung

Only a small percentage of lung nodules turn out to be lung cancer, which is why careful evaluation by a pulmonary specialist is so important.

Our Approach to Lung Nodule Evaluation

Dr. Alaa El-Gendy and our clinical team take a thorough, personalized approach to evaluating every lung nodule. Your care plan may include:

Comprehensive Review

We carefully analyze your CT images, looking at the nodule’s size, shape, location, and characteristics. We also review your medical history, risk factors, and any previous imaging to understand the complete picture.

Risk Assessment

Not all nodules require the same level of follow-up. We use established clinical guidelines and risk calculators to determine your individual risk and create an appropriate monitoring or evaluation plan.

Advanced Diagnostic Options

When further evaluation is needed, we offer access to advanced diagnostic tools, including:

  • High-resolution CT imaging
  • PET scans when indicated
  • Bronchoscopy with advanced navigation technology
  • Biomarker testing to help assess cancer risk
  • Biopsy procedures when necessary

Personalized Follow-Up

Many nodules simply need to be monitored over time with periodic CT scans. We’ll create a follow-up schedule tailored to your specific situation and ensure you never fall through the cracks.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While most nodules are benign, certain factors may warrant closer evaluation:

  • Nodules larger than 8 millimeters
  • Nodules with irregular or spiculated (spiky) edges
  • Nodules that have grown compared to previous imaging
  • History of smoking or significant secondhand smoke exposure
  • Personal or family history of cancer
  • Exposure to certain occupational hazards (asbestos, radon, etc.)

Even if you have one or more of these risk factors, it doesn’t mean your nodule is cancer—it simply means we’ll want to evaluate it more carefully.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

During your visit to our Lung Nodule Clinic, you can expect:

  • A thorough review of your imaging and medical history
  • A clear explanation of what we see and what it likely means
  • Discussion of your options, whether that’s monitoring, additional testing, or intervention
  • A written plan so you know exactly what comes next
  • Time for your questions—we want you to leave feeling informed and confident

We understand that waiting for answers about a lung nodule can be stressful. Our goal is to provide you with clear information, expert guidance, and compassionate care throughout the process.

Why Choose Florida Lung & Sleep Associates?

  • Specialized Expertise: Dr. El-Gendy is board-certified in pulmonary medicine with over 20 years of experience evaluating and managing lung nodules
  • Advanced Technology: Access to the latest diagnostic tools and techniques
  • Coordinated Care: If treatment is needed, we coordinate seamlessly with thoracic surgeons and oncologists
  • Research Leadership: As an active clinical research site since 2009, we stay at the forefront of advances in pulmonary care
  • Patient-Centered Approach: We take time to explain your condition and answer your questions

Schedule Your Lung Nodule Evaluation

If you’ve been told you have a lung nodule and need expert evaluation, or if you have questions about a previous finding, we’re here to help.

Call us at (239) 369-3333 to schedule an appointment at our Lehigh Acres or Fort Myers location.

Please bring any CD or records of your CT scan to your appointment, or have them sent to our office in advance.

Lung Cancer Screening

Are you at high risk for lung cancer? Annual low-dose CT screening can detect lung cancer early, when it’s most treatable. You may qualify for screening if you:

  • Are 50-80 years old
  • Have a 20 pack-year smoking history (for example, one pack per day for 20 years)
  • Currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years

Ask us about our lung cancer screening program.