Thyroid Nodules

[pennywise62]

Good morning, I recently had a follow ultrasound on my thyroid for the nodules that were discovered during a ct scan for a totally unrelated issue. Several nodules were seen on the scan and some were large, 2.2 cm { my thyroid measures 4.0 x 1.6 x 1.3/ 0.3 cm thick} Right lobe. { 1.7 x 3.6 x 1.7 } Left lobe.The report goes on to say I have several varies nodules but what caught my eye was that I have a "multi complex nodule 2.2 cm x 1.1 cm x 1.0 cm in my left nodule in addition to a 0.8 cm nodule. Am I over reacting before my appointment with the Endrochronologist or does this seem like a pretty large nodule? Has anyone else had similar nodules..it seems all of mine had different names /types which I didn't list. Thanks for your help. Have a good day

[Clutter]

Pennywise, it is quite large. Nodules >2cm usually require a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy to rule out malignancy. Don't panic, 95% of nodules are benign. You will be given a local anaesthetic so the procedure is not painful, but is uncomfortable. I was given a pad to apply pressure to the site for 20-30 mins to reduce swelling and bruising. There was bruising and soreness for a few days and paracetamol helped with the discomfort.

If the nodule is benign it will probably be left in situ unless it is likely to impact on nearby organs and will probably be monitored annually/biannually.

My nodule was 2.5cm on ultrasound and was compressing my windpipe. The FNA result was inconclusive but not repeated as surgery was scheduled 5 months later to ease my breathing and swallowing. The biopsied tumour was malignant so I had completion thyroidectomy 3 months later followed by RAI. I've been in remission 3 years now.

[pennywise62 in reply to Clutter]

Thank you for your reply. I have been stressing about this. My appointment isn't until the 13th. I forgot to mention that my lymph nodes are swollen and my white blood count is elevated. Not sure if that is normal. I do have difficulty swallowing now. I'm really scared

[Clutter in reply to pennywise62]

Pennywise, high WBC and swollen lymph nodes are likely to be due to a bacterial or virus infection and may be causing swallowing difficulty. They're probably unrelated to the thyroid nodule. If you've had difficulty swallowing for a long time it's likely due to pressure from the nodule on your trachea.

Of course, you're scared and stressing, it would be unnatural if you weren't. Take things a step at a time. See your endo and find out what he recommends. The worst scenario is you will need a lobectomy (partial) or complete thyroidectomy. Thyroid surgery and recovery outcomes are very, very good.

[pennywise62]

Thanks again