HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Does "crystalization In The Lung" Mean?

default
Posted on Tue, 1 Jul 2014
Question: i'm trying to find out what a crystalization in the lung (shows on xray) could mean. my primary care doctor said not to worry, but didn't tell me anything more. i just had a new xray because i have spine surgery next week and the spot (where my doctor said was a crystalization) looks to have tripled in size from the xray last year.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
You need HRCT Scan of thorax.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX
Thanks for writing to HCM

Crystalization in the lung refers to fibrotic scar and calcifications in lungs and these are formed due to past infection or exposure to certain minerals like silica,coal etc.Generally these are sequel of infection.

During healing process,infection heals by fibrosis and calcification.
It generally doesn't require any treatment.Treatment is only required in excessive fibrosis causing compromised pulmonary functions.

Main concern is that its size shouldn't be increased.It may be due to some persistent exposure to irritants or infection.

X-ray has limitations in assessment of these lesions.I suggest you to go for HRCT scan of thorax for further assessment.
CT Scan will fully evaluate your thorax.

Proper treatment depend upon findings.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Indu Kumar (20 hours later)
Thank you for your fast reply.
It was originally no larger then the head of a pin. It's now the size of a nickel. It's in the lower section of the left lung. It's been one year between xrays.
I like to know all I can before going to my primary since her office is extremely busy and she only handles 2 health issues per visit. I try to prioritize the most important issues only.
I will discuss it further with my primary, thank you again so much.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (11 hours later)
Brief Answer:
CT scan of thorax should be done.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX
Thanks for writing back

As there is increase in size, CT scan of thorax should be done for proper assessment.

Get well soon.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Indu Kumar

Radiologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 6729 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Does "crystalization In The Lung" Mean?

Brief Answer: You need HRCT Scan of thorax. Detailed Answer: Hello XXXX Thanks for writing to HCM Crystalization in the lung refers to fibrotic scar and calcifications in lungs and these are formed due to past infection or exposure to certain minerals like silica,coal etc.Generally these are sequel of infection. During healing process,infection heals by fibrosis and calcification. It generally doesn't require any treatment.Treatment is only required in excessive fibrosis causing compromised pulmonary functions. Main concern is that its size shouldn't be increased.It may be due to some persistent exposure to irritants or infection. X-ray has limitations in assessment of these lesions.I suggest you to go for HRCT scan of thorax for further assessment. CT Scan will fully evaluate your thorax. Proper treatment depend upon findings. Get well soon. Hope I have answered your question. Further queries are most welcome. Take Care Dr.Indu XXXXXXX