Thyroid Nodule - Diagnosis

Diagnosis

After a nodule is found during a physical examination, a referral to an endocrinologist, a thyroidologist or otolaryngologist may occur. Most commonly an ultrasound is performed to confirm the presence of a nodule, and assess the status of the whole gland. Measurement of thyroid stimulating hormone and anti-thyroid antibodies will help decide if there is a functional thyroid disease such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis present, a known cause of a benign nodular goiter. Fine needle biopsy for histopathology is also used.

Thyroid nodules are extremely common in young adults and children. Almost 50% of people have had one, but they are usually only detected by a GP during the course of a health examination, or through a different affliction.