Thyroid nodules are growths or lumps in the thyroid gland that are usually benign but, in some cases, may indicate thyroid cancer. While most nodules are harmless, some require careful evaluation and monitoring to prevent complications. At Elise M. Brett MD PC, located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, Dr. Elise M. Brett provides expert endocrinology care for the diagnosis and management of thyroid nodules. Through advanced thyroid ultrasound, fine-needle biopsies, and individualized treatment plans, patients receive comprehensive care to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal outcomes.
Recognizing the Signs of Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodules often do not cause noticeable symptoms, but some patients may experience:
- A visible lump or swelling in the neck
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of a lump in the throat
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Pain in the neck or throat area
- Persistent cough without other cause
- Rapid growth of a neck mass
- Trouble breathing in rare cases
- Feeling of pressure in the neck
Why Specialized Thyroid Nodule Care is Important
Thyroid nodules are common but distinguishing between benign and potentially malignant nodules requires specialized care. Untreated or undiagnosed thyroid cancer, though rare, can progress and affect overall health. Accurate evaluation involves careful imaging, laboratory testing, and, in many cases, biopsy to determine the nodule’s nature. Early diagnosis enables timely treatment and significantly improves outcomes. Personalized care from an experienced endocrinologist ensures that patients receive the most appropriate intervention, whether monitoring, medication, or referral for surgical evaluation. Comprehensive thyroid nodule management reduces unnecessary procedures and identifies nodules at higher risk of malignancy. This careful, evidence-based approach empowers patients with confidence in their diagnosis and care plan.
Step-by-Step Thyroid Nodule Evaluation and Treatment
At Elise M. Brett MD PC, the evaluation and management of thyroid nodules follow a structured, patient-focused process:
- Medical History and Symptom Assessment: Dr. Brett reviews personal and family history, thyroid-related symptoms, and any previous imaging or lab results.
- Physical Examination: A targeted neck exam evaluates the size, texture, and mobility of the nodule and the surrounding lymph nodes.
- Thyroid Ultrasound: High-resolution ultrasound is used to assess the nodule’s size, composition, and risk characteristics. Diagnostic ultrasounds are performed in the office.
- Fine-Needle Biopsy (FNA): When indicated, Dr. Brett performs a fine needle aspiration biopsy to determine whether the nodule is benign or malignant. This procedure is performed in the office.
- Laboratory Testing: Blood tests to assess thyroid function. Nodules that produce too much thyroid hormone are rarely thyroid cancer but may require other treatments.
- Individualized Treatment Plan: Based on the results, Dr. Brett develops a tailored plan that may include active surveillance, medication, or referral for surgical evaluation if cancer risk is present.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Patients with benign nodules are monitored with periodic ultrasound and lab testing to ensure stability and early detection of changes.
Preventing Complications from Thyroid Nodules
While most thyroid nodules are benign, careful management helps prevent complications and ensures early detection of malignancy. Regular monitoring through ultrasound and blood tests enables timely intervention if changes occur. Maintaining awareness of changes in the neck or symptoms such as swallowing difficulties or voice changes is crucial. For high-risk nodules, fine-needle aspiration biopsy guides appropriate treatment. Patients who follow an individualized monitoring and treatment plan minimize the risk of missed or delayed diagnoses. With proactive care, the likelihood of complications and progression to thyroid cancer is significantly reduced.
Most thyroid nodules are benign and can be safely monitored with regular follow-up. Nodules requiring treatment, including surgery for thyroid cancer, typically have excellent outcomes when detected early. Regular thyroid ultrasound and lab monitoring help patients stay informed about their thyroid health and intervene promptly if changes occur. Many patients experience peace of mind knowing that nodules are being evaluated and monitored by a specialized endocrinologist. Treatment plans are tailored to minimize unnecessary interventions while addressing any risk factors for malignancy. With ongoing care from Dr. Brett, patients can maintain thyroid health and reduce anxiety associated with potential thyroid cancer risk.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thyroid Nodules
1. Are thyroid nodules common?
Yes, thyroid nodules are very common, especially in adults over 30. Most nodules are benign and do not require immediate intervention.
2. How are thyroid nodules detected?
Thyroid nodules are typically noted by a patient or a physician upon examining the neck. Not uncommonly they are noted incidentally on imaging tests performed to evaluate other conditions such as a CT or MRI of the cervical spine or a carotid Doppler test.
3. How is thyroid cancer detected in nodules?
High-resolution ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration biopsy are the primary methods for determining whether a nodule is cancerous.
4. Can thyroid nodules go away on their own?
Solid nodules do not typically go away but many remain stable or can rarely decrease in size over time. Small growths that are fluid filled (cysts) can sometimes go away on their own and larger cysts can sometimes be fully drained by a doctor.
5. Is a biopsy painful?
Fine-needle biopsy is minimally invasive and typically causes only mild discomfort. Local anesthetic spray is used to ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
6. Does Dr. Brett send biopsies for molecular testing?
Dr. Brett sends thyroid biopsies to either CBL Path or Veracyte for evaluation of cytology. If cytology results are indeterminate, the specimens are then sent for either Thyroseq or Afirma testing. If you have a preference of molecular tests, you can let her know prior to the procedure.
7. How often should thyroid nodules be monitored?
Monitoring depends on size, ultrasound characteristics, and risk factors. Many patients are initially re-evaluated with ultrasound after 6-12 months, and then less frequently over time if a nodule demonstrates stability.
Take Charge of Your Thyroid Health
Thyroid nodules require careful evaluation and monitoring to ensure accurate diagnosis and safe management. At Elise M. Brett MD PC, Dr. Elise M. Brett offers expert thyroid ultrasound and biopsy services, along with individualized care to manage thyroid nodules and assess thyroid cancer risk.
If you notice a lump in your neck or were diagnosed with a thyroid nodule, scheduling a consultation with Dr. Brett is the next step. Receive personalized care, expert guidance, and ongoing support to protect your thyroid health and ensure peace of mind.