Lung Disease/tumor or cyst

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Expert: Stacey Lloyd - 9/2/2006


Question
I coughed up blood a couple times recently & went to my Dr. a chest x-ray was done. It showed a tumor or a cyst. Can you give me quick answer as to the difference my next appt is Tues, thanks Ruth

Answer
Ruth,

Great question! A tumor is a swelling and can be cancerous or non-cancerous.

A cyst is a fluid-filled sac and is typically non-cancerous. But some cancers can form cancerous cysts.

To determine the difference, doctors will do a biopsy and perform a microscopic examination of the cells.

Stacey Lloyd
Lung Diseases Guide
About.com
http://lungdiseases.about.com

Lung Disease

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Volunteer

Stacey Lloyd

Expertise

I can answer questions regarding the most common lung diseases; however, I am most qualified to answer questions regarding tuberculosis.

Experience

I have over ten years experience in healthcare and over six years in experience the pharmaceutical industry with a specialty in respiratory disease.

Education/Credentials
M.S degree in the pharmaceutical sciences from Temple University School of Pharmacy B.S. in Biology from Elizabethtown College

Past/Present Clients
About.com, Buzzle.com, Cystic Fibrosis Worldwide (CFWW), NOAA.gov, Pharmacy Solutions, AllInfoAbout.com, HousekeepingChannel.com, BellaOnline.com

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