How common are thyroid nodules?
Nodules are often found by chance on a scan done for another reason, or felt as a lump in the neck. They become more common with age, and most are benign.
Step one: blood tests and ultrasound
A TSH blood test checks thyroid function. A thyroid ultrasound shows the size and features of the nodule, such as its borders, whether it is solid or fluid-filled, and whether it contains tiny calcium deposits. These features help decide whether a biopsy is needed.
Step two: fine needle aspiration
If the nodule is large enough and has certain features on ultrasound, a fine needle aspiration biopsy is recommended. A very thin needle collects cells for analysis. It takes a few minutes and is well tolerated.
Talk with Dr. Arsenous about your options.
Understanding the results
- Benign: usually monitored with periodic ultrasound
- Indeterminate: may need repeat biopsy, molecular testing or surgery to get a definite answer
- Suspicious or malignant: surgery is usually recommended
- Non-diagnostic: not enough cells; the biopsy is usually repeated
When surgery is recommended
Surgery may be advised for nodules that are cancerous or suspicious, indeterminate nodules, large nodules causing pressure or swallowing difficulty, and some overactive nodules. Options are described on our thyroidectomy page.
Symptoms to report
See a doctor promptly for a rapidly growing neck lump, hoarseness that lasts more than a few weeks, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.