Had a follow up ct scan for covid pneumonia , which cleared. a 3 mm subpleural nodule in the posterior aspect of the right lower lobe was found. im a 50 year old female, former smoker, quit 9 years ago, no other health concerns. what could this be?

This could be an inflammatory nodule related to the pneumonia. The CT scan should be repeated in 3-4 months to be sure it is not getting bigger-hopefully it will resolve. If it does get bigger, a biopsy would be indicated. But, these often resolve over time. Congrats on quitting smoking and I’m glad you are feeling better from your Covid infection. Get a Covid vaccine when you are eligible.

The nodule should be re evaluated/Pulmonologist. Any symptoms such as weight loss, hemoptysis must be reported to your PCP right away. The risk factor calculator including the actual appearance of the nodule, your family history, are helpful in guiding additional testing and biopsy. During a visit with Healthtap, the scan images and report may be shared. Would like to review with you.

I agree with Dr.F's advice to get a repeat CT scan in 3 months. Your scan showed what's considered a micronodule which is almost always benign & usually no follow-up is needed. However as a former smoker you are considered a high risk & follow-up for at least 2 years is advised to assure that you're not dealing with a very slow growing malignant nodule. A pulmonologist could validate this advice.