Thyroid nodules are lumps that form within your thyroid gland, which is located in the neck. These nodules are very common, especially as people age. However, only a small percentage are cancerous.
– Clinical Examination: About 5% of adults have thyroid nodules that can be detected through physical examination.
– Ultrasound (USS): Up to 50% of adults may have nodules detectable through ultrasound or at autopsy.
– Thyroid Cancer: Although thyroid nodules are common, thyroid cancer is rare, occurring in about 4 out of every 100,000 people per year.
– The increasing use of imaging techniques like ultrasound and CT scans has led to more frequent detection of these nodules.
Detecting whether a thyroid nodule is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) is crucial:
– For Patients with Cancer: Early detection can lead to treatment at an earlier stage, potentially reducing the risk of severe health issues or death.
– For Patients with Benign Nodules: It avoids unnecessary tests and surgeries, ensuring peace of mind and less medical intervention.
Some factors that increase the suspicion of thyroid cancer include:
– Age below 20 years
– Male gender
– Nodules larger than 4 cm
– Hard, fixed nodules, or those with lymph node involvement or voice changes
– Family history of thyroid cancer or exposure to radiation
– Urgent Referral: Seek medical advice if you experience unexplained hoarseness, voice changes, or if there is a rapidly growing thyroid mass.
– Immediate Referral: If you notice stridor (a high-pitched wheezing sound) associated with a thyroid lump, immediate medical attention is required.
– Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA): This is a common procedure where a small sample of cells is taken from the nodule to determine if it’s benign or malignant.
– Ultrasound: Often used to assess the thyroid gland and detect any abnormalities.
– Benign Nodules: Often, benign nodules do not require surgery unless they cause symptoms.
– Cancerous Nodules: Treatment typically involves surgery, which may include total thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid gland) and possibly lymph node removal if cancer has spread.
Many thyroid nodules are discovered incidentally during imaging for other reasons. These non-palpable nodules can still be evaluated using ultrasound, and further tests can be done if they show suspicious features.
10. How do I book an appointment with Dr. Humayun?
To book an appointment with Dr. Humayun, you can visit the “Contact” section of this website or call the clinic directly. Online booking options may also be available for your convenience. It is advisable to book in advance to secure your preferred appointment time.
For appointments or inquiries, you can contact the clinic by phone at 0789 727 7536 or by email at info@asifhumayun.com.
Dr. Humayun accepts a wide range of private health insurance plans. Please check with the clinic when booking your appointment to confirm whether your insurance is accepted. If you have any questions regarding payment or insurance coverage, the clinic staff will be happy to assist you.
Dr. Humayun’s clinic is conveniently located in various locations.
In addition to in-person consultations, Dr Humayun also offers virtual consultations, including telephone and video appointments. This allows patients to receive expert endocrine care from the comfort of their own homes, no matter where they are in the world.
Detailed directions and parking information are available on the “Contact” page of this website.
For appointments or inquiries, you can contact the clinic by phone at 0789 727 7536 or by email at info@asifhumayun.com.
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