Thyroid nodule treatment is performed using different methods depending on the characteristics of the nodule. Thyroid nodules are small cysts that form in the thyroid gland. While they may not affect some people throughout their lives, others may experience difficulty breathing or swallowing as symptoms. At this point, thyroid nodules are treated using appropriate methods.
Contents
- What Is Thyroid Nodule Treatment?
- How Is a Thyroid Nodule Diagnosed?
- How Are Thyroid Nodules Treated?
- Which Thyroid Nodules Are Dangerous?
- Thyroid Nodule Treatment Methods
- Benign Thyroid Nodule Treatment
- Non-Surgical Thyroid Nodule Treatment
- Thyroid Ablation Procedure
- When Do Thyroid Nodules Require Surgery?
- Post-Treatment for Thyroid Nodules
What Is Thyroid Nodule Treatment?
Thyroid nodule treatment refers to the treatment of small masses called nodules in the thyroid gland. Thyroid nodules are mostly benign but sometimes carry a risk of cancer. Treatment depends on the size of the nodule, the symptoms it causes, the patient’s age, and overall health. Small nodules may not show symptoms and can be observed by a doctor. If growth or changes are detected, action can be taken.
How Is a Thyroid Nodule Diagnosed?
Diagnosing thyroid nodules starts with a doctor’s examination. The doctor palpates the neck and thyroid gland to feel and estimate the size of the nodules. Ultrasound imaging provides detailed views of the nodules. If necessary, a fine-needle biopsy is performed to collect a sample for laboratory analysis, which can determine cancer risk.
How Are Thyroid Nodules Treated?
Thyroid nodule treatment options depend on the characteristics of the nodule. Decisions are based on the size of the nodule, symptoms, and cancer risk. Small benign nodules are monitored, while growing nodules with symptoms are treated using other methods.
Treatment options include medication, iodine therapy, ablation, or surgery. Medications control nodule growth. Radioactive iodine therapy destroys nodule cells. Ablation is used for small nodules, while surgery is for larger, cancerous nodules.
Which Thyroid Nodules Are Dangerous?
Signs of dangerous thyroid nodules include a very firm consistency detected during examination or nodules invading surrounding tissues, such as neck muscles and the larynx. Thyroid nodules may also damage the vocal cords or coexist with suspicious lymph nodes.
Thyroid nodules in young or elderly individuals, or in those with a family history of thyroid cancer, may be concerning. Fine-needle biopsy samples help determine the nature of the nodules, guiding treatment decisions.
Thyroid Nodule Treatment Methods
Treatment methods include medication, surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, and ablation therapy. These methods are chosen based on the patient's symptoms, nodule characteristics, and cancer risk.
- Medication involves using hormonal drugs to control nodule growth, though it may not shrink the nodules significantly.
- Surgery is performed for large nodules, those with cancer risk, or symptomatic nodules. Part or all of the nodule may be removed surgically.
- Radioactive iodine therapy is suitable for cold, non-functioning nodules. Patients receive radioactive iodine to shrink or eliminate the nodules.
- Ablation therapy uses radiofrequency or laser techniques to destroy the nodules, particularly small ones.
Benign Thyroid Nodule Treatment
Benign thyroid nodules are common, occurring in about 85% of cases. Surgery is performed when they impact the patient’s quality of life. Nodules that don’t affect life are monitored with regular check-ups.
Benign nodules are typically treated with surgery, but laser ablation may be used to avoid surgical risks. The treatment choice depends on the nodule's size and characteristics.
Non-Surgical Thyroid Nodule Treatment
Non-surgical treatments like ablation are common for benign nodules. Laser ablation destroys nodules using heat, guided by ultrasound. Radiofrequency ablation uses a fine needle to deliver energy to the nodule, shrinking or eliminating it.
Thyroid Ablation Procedure
Thyroid ablation is used when surgery is not suitable, especially in younger patients with small nodules. This method injects radiofrequency, laser energy, or ethanol into the nodule to shrink or eliminate it.
When Do Thyroid Nodules Require Surgery?
Surgery is necessary if biopsy results indicate cancer risk, or if nodules grow rapidly, affect lymph nodes, or cause abnormal cell structures.
Post-Treatment for Thyroid Nodules
Post-treatment follow-ups are essential to monitor thyroid health. Hormone levels may require supplementation. Any complications are rare and typically manageable. Most patients can resume normal diets without restrictions.
