The Lung Nodule Service provides specialist assessment and monitoring for adults with lung nodules (small spots or lumps in the lung smaller than 3 cm). Led by a specialist nurse and respiratory physicians, the service delivers expert imaging review, coordinated follow-up imaging and guideline-based care.
The Lung Nodule Service is run by a Clinical Nurse Consultant and Respiratory Physicians, who work closely with thoracic radiologists to provide expert imaging review, smoking cessation support and guideline-based lung nodule management. We aim to detect lung cancer early, while minimising unnecessary tests. Referrals suspicious for lung cancer are redirected to Lung Mass Clinic for evaluation.
What to expect from the service?
The Lung Nodule service supports people found to have one or more lung nodules, and those who are eligible for lung cancer screening. You can expect:
- Referral and assessment: You may be referred by your GP, emergency department or another specialist. Please note, your first appointment will commonly be 3 or more months from referral, after you have had a follow-up scan. People interested in lung cancer screening can self-refer using the QR code.
- Specialist care: You will receive care from respiratory doctors and a Clinical Nurse Consultant, who work closely with radiologists (doctors who review your scans) to provide the best care.
- Imaging review: We review all scans for those who are referred, including previous imaging where possible.
- Further investigation if needed: If your follow-up scans suggest possible lung cancer, we will arrange further testing.
- Shared decision making: Your team will explain your results and the recommended next steps, to help you understand your options.
- Support for your health: We provide information about stopping smoking and lung health.
- A personalised follow-up plan: This depends on scan results, individual risk factors and health needs. Some nodules need little or no further monitoring, while others require regular scans for years.
Referrals are accepted from GPs, emergency departments, inpatient teams and outpatient specialists. We welcome self-referrals from individuals who may be eligible for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program.