Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid Nodules

The thyroid gland is located at the base of your neck and produces a hormone that regulates metabolism. Thyroid problems arise when your thyroid makes either too much or too little of this hormone.


Thyroid nodules in the thyroid gland are common but require investigation and possibly intervention.


Thyroidectomy, which is the removal of the complete or partial thyroid gland, may be suggested for treatment of certain thyroid disorders.



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Thyroid Nodule Diagnosis

Thyroid Ultrasound

An ultrasound allows a more thorough and complete evaluation of the thyroid gland tissues, surrounding structures and anatomy. It can help differentiate and determine which thyroid gland nodules require further investigation.

Thyroid Nodule Diagnosis

Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy

This safe, office-based procedure performed under local anesthesia involves inserting a small needle into the enlarged nodule to get a sample of the tissue. This tissue is then analyzed by a pathologist to determine a diagnosis.

Types of Thyroid Nodules


Single Thyroid Nodule


Many people have thyroid nodules that are not concerning. When the nodule is large, growing, or has suspicious characteristics, an ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (biopsy) may be needed to determine the type of nodule and the best treatment plan.


Multinodular Goiter


A goiter is a thyroid gland filled with many noncancerous nodules. They can be nonfunctional (not produce hormones) or functional, such as in Graves' Disease.  


Thyroid Cancer


Thyroid cancer, although concerning, is well-treated. Thyroidectomy is often recommended with possible additional treatment, such as radioactive ablation. Common thyroid cancers include papillary thyroid cancer, follicular thyroid cancer, and medullary thyroid cancer.

Other ENT Conditions

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