Thyroid nodules are extremely common, and the majority of adults after the age of 50 may have one or more small thyroid nodules. Most of the nodules (over 90%) are benign. Testing is done to detect those nodules which are not benign.

 

If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid nodule your doctor may refer you for further testing. A simple blood test can determine the function of the thyroid gland, and the nature of the nodule can be tested by a biopsy using a very fine needle to extract cells from the nodule under ultrasound guidance.

 

We, at ENT Specialists, have a vast experience of performing these ultrasound guided procedures in the office, with more than 4000 nodules tested in the last 10 years.  Biopsy may be able to be done on the day you come for your initial consultation.  Biopsy is done under local anesthesia and no special preparation is required and there is no recovery period.

 

Results from the biopsy take 1 to 3 weeks depending on the extent of testing required, as about 25% of the nodules require special molecular testing to get a more definitive answer.

​

Small nodules that turn out to be benign are simply followed by an annual follow-up ultrasound. 

However, benign nodules may require intervention in following scenarios:

• Nodules over 4 cm in size

• Large nodules causing pressure symptoms

• Visible large nodules that are cosmetically unacceptable

• Hyperfunctioning nodules causing increased thyroid hormone production

• Nodules showing definite trend for growth

• Nodules showing growth behind the collar bone towards the chest

​

​