Thyroid nodule: I posted recently about a thyroid... - Thyroid UK

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Thyroid nodule

Markarska profile image
8 Replies

I posted recently about a thyroid nodule I was diagnosed with in April and a follow up scan shows the nodule has grown a little since then. I have watched the webinar on thyroid nodules and realise they are common and more benign than not. I am being told by the consultant that they cannot confirm if it is benign or not so it’s up to me if I have it, and half my thyroid, removed.

I have now had thyroid function tests all of which are normal. The other option is to continue monitoring the nodule. A biopsy showed an inconclusive result. I’m not sure where to go from here.

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Markarska profile image
Markarska
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8 Replies
SlowDragon profile image
SlowDragonAdministrator

Exactly what tests were done

Please add results and ranges

For full Thyroid evaluation you need TSH, FT4 and FT3 plus both TPO and TG thyroid antibodies tested.

Very important to test vitamin D, folate, ferritin and B12

Were tests done early morning

Markarska profile image
Markarska in reply to SlowDragon

Yes, tests were done first thing before eating or drinking.TSH 1.95, thyroxine 15.5, FT3 4.7. I regularly have vit D checked and take vitD tabs. I have monthly bloods tests and B12 and foleates are ok. I take Folic acid. I don’t feel unwell at all and this nodule was discovered when scanning for a blocked salivary gland.

SlowDragon profile image
SlowDragonAdministrator in reply to Markarska

Please add ranges on Ft4 and Ft3

Were thyroid antibodies tested, if not get both tested

Money off testing, see here

thyroiduk.org/help-and-supp...

medichecks.com/products/thy...

Or include vitamins and cortisol via Blue horizon

bluehorizonbloodtests.co.uk...

Low folate and low vitamin D possibly suggests thyroid is starting to struggle

What were vitamin D, B12 and folate results and ranges , before starting on supplements

What was ferritin result

PurpleNails profile image
PurpleNailsAdministrator in reply to Markarska

What troubles me is that doctors have simply said “inconclusive” & put the onus on you to decide.

I would also feel very torn as although nodules are likely benign & even when there are abnormalities they rarely spread beyond the thyroid. The ambiguity is why they left the decision left to you & the unknown would make me very anxious.

What level of monitoring are doctors offering? I think I’d want to attempt another FNA before deciding to remove my thyroid “just in case”

Markarska profile image
Markarska in reply to PurpleNails

The monitoring appears to be 6 monthly scans. The biopsy was unable to collect enough cells. The nodule is9mm.

Shield-Maiden profile image
Shield-Maiden

Hi Markarska,

Personally, I would monitor the nodule for a little while, before deciding to have your Thyroid removed.

I am just telling you this, in the hope that it might comfort you a little.

About 4 years ago, when telling me that I had a (non-cancerous) brain tumour, I was also told that I had a nodule. No one told me the size of the nodule, or, even seemed concerned. I was told that most people have nodules, and don't even know - in other words, it wasn't anything to worry about, so I didn't.

Since then, I moved countries, and on a routine scan of my Thyroid, my lovely Endo (they do exist, albeit rare) asked me what size it was at my last scan, I had to say, that I did not know.

Turns out that mine is 21mm, and if it gets any larger, at my next scan (2022) they will do a biopsy. I am hoping for the best, as I really do not want my Thyroid removed.

Monitor it, give yourself time, before deciding to remove your Thyroid.

All the best 👋

Markarska profile image
Markarska in reply to Shield-Maiden

Thank you so much for your helpful advice. I also think I want to keep monitoring the situation and hope the specialist agrees. It’s good to know that you have been able to monitor yours and be interested to know how you get on. Good luck with it all.

Shield-Maiden profile image
Shield-Maiden in reply to Markarska

Thank you Markarska,

You as well, take care 🤗

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