Aside from lung cancer, what other diseases can a shadow on a chest X-ray indicate?

Question

I had an annual physical examination last Dec. 6, 2006. I received the results almost three weeks after then the findings of my chest X-ray result said that there is a shadow so I need to be tested again for a detailed/precise examination of what that shadow on my chest X-ray means. It's more than two months now and I didn't feel any unusual pain (symptom) on my chest at all but I do experience some common colds because it's winter here in Japan. Next week I'll go to that hospital to undertake the more detailed exam of my chest. I am totally non-smoker by the way. Just kinda bit worry because all my X-ray results in the past years are normal. I'm trying to find out what other lung or heart-related diseases could a shadow on a chest X-ray indicate. I really appreciate any response for this matter. Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

A shadow could mean a lot of different things. It is not necessarily cancer at all. It could be an infection (new or old), a foreign body, a benign growth, a lymph node, or many other things. I'm sure a radiologist would have a much longer list. :)

The important thing is that you are going to go back and get retested. I hope it turns out to be nothing serious.

Answer 2

Could be about anything. A shadow on a chest xray is nothing to worry yourself over. Wait till you get your retake done and then see what they have to say. Most of the time it is nothing. X rays are very very vague in there findings. Shadows could be anything from your nipple to a fold in your skin from the way you were standing. By all means have more test done, but don't make yourself sick over this until you have more information. X rays of the chest seem to have a lot of false findings. Good luck. : )

Answer 3

Can't believe it took this long. I would have been there right away for a re take...it can mean COPD but if you don't smoke maybe not. COPD can be caused by chemical or dust exposure also though. It could have meant phneumonia, I assume it wasn't since you didn't say so. So, good luck on this exam and I pray for it to be fine for you. Good luck.

Answer 4

Well it can be tumor there, not only cancer. Or you maybe lucky just that the len of the X-ray not clear.

Answer 5

COAL MINERS SOMETIMES HAVE THIS BUT HAVE NOT YET DEVELOPED FULL BLOWN BLACK LUNG.....BREATHING DUST......