Thyroid Nodules

Question 1

what are thyroid nodules

Answer 1

abnormal growth of thyroid cells that forms a lump in the thyroid gland

Question 2

characteristics of thyroid nodules

Answer 2

benign, non-functional nodules

Question 3

presenting symptoms of thyroid nodules

Answer 3

mostly asymptomatic; can sometimes cause pain and will rarely compress the trachea, causes dysphagia

Question 4

which thyroid nodules are most likely to be malignant

Answer 4

single isolated nodule

Question 5

signs of thyroid nodule on examination

Answer 5

Ask the patient to drink some water and see if the nodule moves when swallowing

Check for regional lymphadenopathy (consider malignancy)

Question 6

tests for thyroid nodules

Answer 6

TFTs - most patients will be euthyroid

Ultrasound - useful for determining the character of the thyroid nodules

FNA - allows cytological analysis

Radionuclide Isotope Scanning - checks iodine uptake

CT/MRI - detect spread of thyroid cancer

Question 7

management of thyroid nodules

Answer 7

surgical removal

Question 8

what can functional nodules cause

Answer 8

Hyperthyroidism

weight loss, muscle weakness, heat intolerance, and anxiousness or irritability.