Young adult with Lung problem- please help

[Liast]

I am 21. I developed a cough several months ago that won't go away.  Had a chest x-ray. It showed a large consolidation with some nodularity and some possible left hilar adenopathy. Went to a specialist who did a bronchoscopy but results were inconclusive. Another type of biopsy is planned.  I am wondering if you have any ideas on what it could be /next steps?  This is very scary.
Thanks.

PS I have never smoked, nor has my family.

[Kamal S Saini, MD, MRCP (UK), DM]

Hi,
Please consult your doctor and request a CT scan. This would be most helpful.
Good Luck!

[JerseyGirl0111]

How do I find out which states of the US have common fungal infections?  I live in New Jersey and am wondering is that one of the states that has fungal infections?  If you do not know - can you tell me how I would find out.

Thanks

[Kamal S Saini, MD, MRCP (UK), DM]

Hi,
In some parts of the US, fungal infections are common, and need to be ruled out.
AFB is done only when TB is suspected. Biochemical tests usually include liver function tests, kidney function tests, and serum electrolytes.
Good Luck

[Liast]

Thanks for your reply. I live in the United States. I have been vaccinated for TB and recently had a TB skin test which was negative.   I forgot to mention that I had a CT scan before the bronchoscopy, which was inconclusive.   Hopefully the next biopsy will be successful so they can test for the things you mentioned.  What is a boichemical test?  Is a gram stain a standard procedure following a biopsy?  Would they do an AFB only if they suspected TB?   Any other ideas on things it could be/things they should test for?  Thanks.  

[Kamal S Saini, MD, MRCP (UK), DM]

Hi,
In which country do you live? Is TB common there?
It would be helpful to get a CT scan of the thorax, a sputum test for cytology, gram stain, and AFB.
Blood tests (IgM, IgG) for TB, and routine hematology and biochemical tests are also indicated.
After these reports are available, the diagnosis will be more clear.
All the Best, and God Bless!