Patient's question:
I have been feeling unwell recently, with a swollen neck and a sensation of something foreign in my throat. After a thorough examination, it was found that I have thyroid nodules and need a biopsy. I would like to ask how often thyroid nodules are biopsied?Doctor's answer:
Thyroid nodules can be solitary or multiple. Multiple nodules have a higher incidence rate than solitary nodules, but solitary nodules have a higher incidence rate of thyroid cancer. There are various different thyroid diseases in clinical diagnosis, such as degenerative changes, inflammation, autoimmune conditions, and neoplasms, all of which can present as nodules. Through careful examination of neck CT and neck MRI, a rough qualitative assessment can be made. Thyroid nodules can also be biopsied for confirmation, but the diagnostic yield is relatively low. It depends on the size of the nodule. Generally, if it is less than one centimeter, surgical removal is recommended. During surgery, it is crucial to protect the nerves and parathyroid glands to prevent unnecessary complications. A thyroid nodule refers to a lump within the thyroid gland that moves rapidly up and down with the thyroid during swallowing.