01/09/2025
Thyroid nodules are more common than most people might believe. Up to 60% of adults will have at least one thyroid nodule in their life, whether incidentally noted or obviously palpated. Only a fraction of these will be proven malignant, but evaluating for and determining the presence of malignancy is vital in the management plan of patients.
Factors that lead to an increased risk of thyroid nodules:
radiation
family history of thyroid diseases
increased levels of insulin-like growth factor-1
uterine fibroids
The use of CT scans may increase risk, while X-rays do not. Always use these only when needed.
Solitary nodules might pose a higher risk for malignancy than nodules within a multinodular thyroid, but, the overall risk of malignancy will be approximately equal due to the additive risk of each nodule in a patient with a multinodular gland.
For benign nodules, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) may be an efficient, safe, non-invasive method to treat in patients with proven benign nodules. In case RFA is not available in your area, or your endocrinologist has not mentioned it, search for possibilities in larger cities.
The most important decision in case a thyroid surgery is needed:
Always choose a high-volume surgeon specialised in thyroid/parathyroid surgery to possibly avoid surgery complications, such as hypoparathyroidism or vocal cord issues.
