Thyroid/Parathyroid Disease
The thyroid gland is one of the endocrine glands near the throat that secrete hormones that regulates physiological functions in your body. It is shaped like a bow-tie and is located in the middle of the lower neck, lying on top of the larynx or voice box.
Diseases of the thyroid gland are common:
The most common thyroid diseases are caused by an over-active or under-active gland. An overactive gland produces too much thyroid hormone and is called hyperthyroidism or Grave’s disease. An underactive gland does not produce adequate hormone and causes hypothyroidism. The treatment of each disease is different. Medication can be prescribed to treat hypothyroidism.
Hyperthyroidism may require medical and possible surgical management. Tumors in the thyroid gland may develop and they also may produce hormones. These tumors may be cancer and if large enough may need surgical intervention. Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid that can cause the gland to “leak” excess hormones, lasting a few weeks to a few months.
Ultrasound Guided Biopsy
A tissue sample of a thyroid nodule may be necessary for diagnosis. An ultrasound-guided needle biopsy uses a harmless sound waves to guide a needle into the tumor and remove a small tissue sample. This procedure is generally much safer and less invasive than a surgical biopsy. The procedure normally takes less than thirty minutes. It can be performed with local anesthesia. A pathologist examines the sample under a microscope to help determine if any malignant cells are present.
Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodules are lumps or cysts that form in the thyroid. Many are an overgrowth of normal thyroid tissue. They may be found deep in thyroid tissue or located near more superficial. . Most of the time they are found and identified during routine checkups.
Nodules may have no symptoms but are simply felt or seen by the patient or doctor. In some cases, they can cause pain or difficulty swallowing. Many thyroid nodules are benign. However, it is important to have nodules evaluated by a doctor so that if they are cancerous treatment can begin as soon as possible.