Scan notation doesn’t merit visit with a lung specialist

I had a CT scan in July as part of my followup care for grade 1 chondrosarcoma.

My scans were good, showing no cancer issues, but one notation mentioned “scattered areas of benign mucus plugging.”

My orthopedic oncologist didn’t mention this. I’ve taken note of it only because another member of the chondrosarcoma support group I belong to mentioned that she had them noted on her scan.

She asked whether any of us others were familiar with it.

I contacted my primary-care physician to ask what the notation means. She said the “benign” reference indicates that there’s nothing to worry about but that she could recommend a pulmonologist if I wanted a referral.

I don’t want to see any additonal specialists if such a visit is unnecessary.

My question: Should I ask for a referral to a pulmonologist, or can I ignore the scan comment?

I’m a retired 65-yearold woman in good health who exercises on a recumbent bike and treadmill almost daily. I haven’t noticed any breathing difficulties during exercise.

The lining of the lung is protected by cells producing mucus, and cilia (small, hairlike projections on the cells lining the airways) continuously clear the mucus.

Occasionally, the mucus gets too thick and can literally plug a small airway — a problem that can be eliminated with a forceful cough.

Mucus plugs certainly are found in people with no lung problems. I think they probably have nothing to do with the chondrosarcoma, a malignant tumor of cartilage, which can spread to the lung (the CT scan is to look for tumor).

Because you are able to exercise without problems, I agree with your primary-care doctor that further evaluation probably is unnecessary. I’m a 63-year-old female struggling to determine whether the redness and intense heat on my face is rosacea or menopause.

I take hormones for menopause, but if the redness is rosacea, I could stop taking them.

How do I tell which it is?

— T.M.H. — D.H. A:

Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder that’s most visible on the face. It can worsen periodically — flareups that might seem similar to menopausal hot flashes. Rosacea flares, though, are usually triggered by something identifiable: hot liquids, exercise, strong feelings.

Hot flashes, on the other hand, usually come out of nowhere.

The skin findings of rosacea are characteristic and always present; any dermatologist can make the diagnosis by exam, although a biopsy is occasionally needed.

You can learn more at rosacea.org.