Thyroid Nodules
Medical Author:
Ruchi Mathur, M.D.
Medical Editor:
Jay W. Marks, M.D.
Introduction to thyroid nodules
The term "thyroid nodule" refers to any abnormal growth that forms a lump in
the thyroid gland.
The thyroid gland is located low in the front of the neck, below the Adam's
apple. The gland is shaped like a butterfly and wraps around the windpipe or
trachea. The two wings or lobes on either side of the windpipe are joined
together by a bridge, called the isthmus, which crosses over the front of
the windpipe.
A thyroid nodule can occur in any part of the gland. Some nodules can be
felt quite easily, while others can be hidden deep in the thyroid tissue or
located very low in the gland where they are difficult to feel.
What is the prevalence of thyroid nodules and cancer?
These days, with modern imaging studies such as
ultrasound (US),
computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), more and
more thyroid nodules are being found incidentally. This means the nodules
are found during studies that are being done for reasons other than
examination of the thyroid gland. It is estimated that 4-8%
of adult women and 1-2% of adult men have thyroid nodules that can be felt
on physical examination, but closer to 30% of women have nodules detectable
by ultrasound. In fact, the diagnosis of a thyroid nodule is the most common
endocrine problem in the United States.
Although the majority of thyroid
nodules are benign (not cancerous), about 10% of nodules do contain cancer
.
Therefore, the primary purpose for
evaluating a thyroid nodule is to determine whether cancer is present.
Next: What are the symptoms of thyroid nodules? »
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