Why I have I got thyroid lumps?
One cause of a thyroid lump is thyroid cancer. Additionally, goitre, an diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland, can also result in thyroid swelling. While goitre itself is rarely a serious medical problem, it can lead to complications if left untreated.
What sort of investigation methods are used for thyroid lumps?
A thorough clinical examination of the lump will take place. Ultrasound imaging, which allows for a detailed view of the thyroid gland, surrouding lymph glands and any other abnormalities is often used. This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to create images of the gland, providing valuable information about the size, shape, and composition of the lump. If the ultrasound reveals any suspicious features, further investigation may be needed. In such cases, a fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology (like a biopsy) may be recommended. This procedure involves a thin needle being used to extract a small cellular sample from the lump for further analysis. The sample is then examined under a microscope to determine if it is benign or cancerous.
What sort of treatments are available for thyroid lumps?
The treatment required for thyroid lumps depends on various factors such as the size, location, and nature of the lump. A thyroidectomy may be recommended if the lump is potentially cancerous. A potential additional treatment after surgery is radioiodine ablation, which involves taking radioactive iodine orally to destroy any residual thyroid tissue.
Will I definitely need surgery?
No. Many thyroid lumps only need monitoring, particularly when tests confirm they are benign. Surgery is usually considered when a lump is causing symptoms, is growing, is affecting breathing or swallowing, or when there is a concern it could be cancerous. Mr Hughes will talk through whether any treatment is needed, and if it is, which option fits your situation.
How often are thyroid lumps cancerous?
The majority of thyroid nodules are benign, but a small percentage can be cancerous. The risk of a thyroid lump being cancerous increases with certain factors such as age, family history of thyroid cancer, radiation exposure, and the presence of other symptoms. If a thyroid lump is suspected to be cancerous, further investigation is required, including imaging tests, blood tests, and possibly a biopsy.
Will I need medication for life after thyroid surgery?
It depends on how much of the thyroid is removed. If the whole gland is taken out, you will need thyroid hormone replacement, usually one tablet a day, to do the job the gland normally does. If only part is removed, the remaining thyroid can often produce enough hormone on its own. Mr Hughes will go through what to expect before any surgery.
Do thyroid lumps go away on their own?
Some fluid-filled (cystic) nodules can shrink by themselves, but most solid lumps do not disappear without treatment. After a lump is removed surgically, it is uncommon for it to come back in the same place, though the rest of the gland may still be monitored over time.
