First let me say, I understand the fear you are feeling. Reaching out for knwledge is a positive step, and your father is lucky to have you in his corner.
Okay, the CT your father had reflected lung nodules, so the next step will likely be a biopsy to discern whether these are cancer or benign growths.
This will likely be done by:
1.Needle Biopsy-under fluroscopy or CT guidence a needle will be inserted through a 1/8 in incision to aspirate tissue from each nodule. This is done under light sedation and local anesthesia.
or:
2. Bronchoscopy-a tube is inserted down the throat and into the lung. A device is threaded into the lung to obtain specimins for testing. This is done under sedation, and a type of local.
In some cases if the nodules are large or difficult to reach an open biopsy is necessary.
The Hgb (14-18 is normal for males )and platelets(150,000-450,000 is norm) may reflect bleeding from any site, or may also be related to the lung nodules.
I recommend a notebook where you can record names and addresses of Doctors, tests and results, medications, questions and answers, and symptoms experienced.
Questions for your next visit should include:
The name of the pulmonologist you will be referring my father to for the biopsy and follow up:
What form of biopsy will you recommend?
Is this the safest biopsy available considering location of the nodule, size and his low platlet count?
How long will he be monitored at the Hospital after the biopsy/before release?
How long will results take, and who is in charge of communicating them?
Until a biopsy is done, these will be the main questions on which to focus.
It is very likely all of his symptoms are related, and testing of the colon, stomach etc. will not become necessary until the lung condition is fully investigated.
I have question lists for the pulmonologist and oncologist if cancer is detected. I will be happy to share those, though at this point it is probably best to take this one step at a time. When/if you want/need any more info, I will be available by request or private message, and I will be happy to follow along and offer info and support as your needs arise.
I hope my answer is helpful. If you have more questions, just ask! I am happy to help. If not, please click "accept" so I may receive credit for my work.
Positive feedback and a bonus is appreciated when you feel I've earned it. Thank you, Christy