Question about CT scan of chest 4 months post rads

Lilyluv

I had a chest xray from a trip to the ER for an allergic reaction.   They found a 2.9cm x 3.6 cm ill defined density in the subpleural right middle lobe. The xray said  primary lung cancer or metastasis can't be excluded.  So a CT was ordered and they determined it was likely from rads (big sigh of relief!).  The report came out with some things I've never heard of though.

Have any of you heard of sclerotic changes in your ribs or
pericardial effusion (fluid around heart) after rads?

I've had a cough and wonder if it's due to that. Four months out and my full energy still isn't back.

TB90

Lilyluv;  In my research, I discovered so many things that can show up on a chest x-ray following radiation, that I decided right then and there that should I need an x-ray in the future, I would immediately consult with my RO to prevent becoming terrified of all the things that may show up.  I do not feel qualified to respond to your specific situation, but I do know that all sorts of lung issues involving fluid, etc. are very common up to 6 months post radiation.  And I do know that our ribs are affected to the point that fractures can occur.  You may have an undiagnosed SE from rads that has been keeping your energy down all this time.  So hopefully, now that they see all of this, you can be appropriately treated.  I know that my asthma is definitely more difficult to control since my rads. 

Lilyluv

Thanks very much TB90! I hate to see what they find on breast exams after having biopsies and surgery!  I only had full breast rads on the right, so it surprises me that there would be any side effect involving the heart.  You've got a good point that some of these side effects could be causing the fatigue to linger.  I have to take thyroid meds for an underactive thyroid, so I'm also going to call the endocrinologist to run a blood test to see where it stands after all this.  Wouldn't be surprised if being off estrogen and rads could affect thyroid function.