and the doctor says:
Ms. Dyer your neck and spine are fine from your motor vehicle accident, but your MRI shows that you have a large thyroid nodule.
Thyroid Nodules At A Glance
Thyroid Nodules At A Glance
- Thyroid nodules are the most common endocrine problem in the United States. OK
- The vast majority of thyroid nodules are benign. YES!
- Individuals with thyroid nodules at the extremes of age, and males with thyroid nodules have a higher likelihood of having a cancerous nodule. Exposure to radiation also increases the probability that a nodule is cancerous. Is 26 an extreme age?
- Cancer is more of a concern with a solitary nodule than with multiple nodules. SHIT!
- A nodule in a normally-functioning gland is more likely to be cancerous than a nodule in a gland that is hyperfunctioning. My blood results are normal, therefore indicating it's normally-functioning.
- A diagnosis of thyroid cancer is aided by ultrasound and radionuclide scanning, but is best made by fine needle aspiration. Caution should be used, however, since there is a possibility that the aspiration may give an incorrect diagnosis or be unable to make a diagnosis (non-diagnostic aspirate). Going to the surgeon Monday.
- Nodules that are hyperfunctioning require treatment aimed at controlling the signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism. OK, a chronic condition, but not potentially fatal like CANCER!
- Cancerous nodules or those that are highly suspicious for cancer should be removed, while the rest should be followed closely and reassessed frequently. TAKE IT PLEASE!