In this Article

• Introduction to thyroid nodules
• What is the prevalence of thyroid nodules and cancer?
• What are the symptoms of thyroid nodules?
• What are the types of thyroid nodules?
• How are thyroid nodules diagnosed?
• What is the treatment of thyroid nodules?
• Thyroid Nodules At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Thyroid Nodules - How Was Diagnosis Established
• Thyroid Nodules Glossary
• Thyroid Nodules Index

Thyroid Nodules At A Glance

• Thyroid nodules are the most common endocrine problem in the United States.
• The vast majority of thyroid nodules are benign.
• Individuals with thyroid nodules at the extremes of age, and males with thyroid nodules have a higher likelihood of having a cancerous nodule. Exposure to radiation also increases the probability that a nodule is cancerous.
• Cancer is more of a concern with a solitary nodule than with multiple nodules.
• A nodule in a normally-functioning gland is more likely to be cancerous than a nodule in a gland that is hyperfunctioning.
• A diagnosis of thyroid cancer is aided by ultrasound and radionuclide scanning, but is best made by fine needle aspiration. Caution should be used, however, since there is a possibility that the aspiration may give an incorrect diagnosis or be unable to make a diagnosis (non-diagnostic aspirate).
• Nodules that are hyperfunctioning require treatment aimed at controlling the signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
• Cancerous nodules or those that are highly suspicious for cancer should be removed, while the rest should be followed closely and reassessed frequently.

Thyroid Nodules - How Was Diagnosis Established

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