Got a Thyroid Nodule?

Thyroid Enlargements

The Basics:

As discussed before, enlargements in the thyroid can be found on clinical exams. A diffuse enlargement is most typically seen in Hashimoto’s Hypothyroidism. Alternatively, a thyroid nodule(s) has a more irregular form. And, whether it’s a single nodule (solitary nodular enlargement), and/or many nodules (multi-nodular enlargement) your clinician will likely want to learn more about them.

Why do we Care about These nodules?

From a clinical perspective, we want to know if they are:

• Producing Hormones (more likely if you’re having symptoms of HYPER thyroid function: elevated heart rate, loss of appetite, weight loss etc)
• Pressing on Important nearby Structures (are you having trouble swallowing or speaking?)
• Cancerous or Benign.

Therefore, in these scenarios you may be asked to complete an Ultrasound, a Fine Needle Aspiration/Biopsy, and/or a RadioIodine Uptake Exam.

It’s always scary to hear you have a “nodule(s)” so, while this is an area that we would enlist the help of our Endocrinology colleagues, our hope is to help educate to support your empowerment!