The only way to establish a diagnosis on these nodules is to remove them surgically and carefully study them microscopically, looking for signs of malignancy. Diagnosis and management of thyroid nodules require skill and experience on the part of all physicians who participate in the evaluation. Needle biopsy has greatly improved the accuracy of diagnosis. In my clinic, the proportion of nodule patients for whom surgery is advised has been reduced significantly and, at the same time, a number of cancers that otherwise might have been overlooked have been identified and promptly treated. Above all, if you think you have a lump in your thyroid, have it checked by your doctor.
Most nodules are benign and cared for easily.
But even those that do turn out to contain cancer are unlikely to develop into a life-threatening problem, since most thyroid cancers are curable. However, the earlier the treatment is given, the better the result will be for you. Originally published in The Bridge , Vol. 1, No. 1. Please remember to try the search feature at top of page for more related information on this site.