Thyroid nodules are round and firm lumps formed in thyroid glands which may be filled with fluid (cystic) or solid medium. They may vary from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in size. There can be one or dozens of nodules in a thyroid gland at the same time. Thyroid nodules carry cancer risk. However, only about 5% of all nodules are cancer. Here, it is important to identify which nodule carries the highest cancer risk. This is performed by physicians specialized in this field.
Symptoms of Thyroid Nodules
Most of the thyroid nodules are incidentally identified. Only a small number demonstrate symptoms, with 95% of the cases show no symptom. Rarely, a lump can be felt on the neck, difficulties in swallowing, sense of discomfort when swallowing, or even at extremes, hoarseness may occur.
Diagnostic Methods for Thyroid Nodules
Diagnosis is made by physical examination and ultrasound scan. Ultrasound provides a clear image of the nodule as well as important information on presence of cancer in terms of differential diagnosis. Biopsy is performed for nodules suspected for cancer
Treatment of Thyroid Nodules
Appropriate thyroid nodule treatment is determined based on ultrasound image of the nodule. Small nodules that do not appear to be risky do not require treatment. They are monitored using ultrasound on 6 months to 1 year intervals. Fine needle biopsy is performed for small but risky nodules. If the nodule diameter is larger than 3 cm or the ultrasound image indicates cancer risk, surgical procedure is performed even without biopsy.
Cancer Risk for Thyroid Nodules
Cancer risk for thyroid nodules is approximately around 5%. Thus, patients with thyroid nodules should not be overwhelmed about cancer. Identifying the most risky nodule for cancer has the utmost importance. Patients in this group should simply see an endocrinologist or endocrine surgeon.
Thyroid Hormone Replacement Treatment
Where thyroid gland is hypoactive or surgically removed, prescription of oral hormone tablets for thyroxine, a hormone secreted by thyroid gland, is referred as hormone replacement treatment.
