What is a Hyperfunctioning thyroid nodule?

A hyperfunctioning or “hot” nodule is defined as a nodular region of the thyroid gland, which is visualized as a “hot spot” on thyroid scans due to the larger amount of radiotracer, compared with the surrounding normal thyroid glands (1, 2).

What is a solitary thyroid nodule?

Introduction. The solitary thyroid nodule, defined as a palpably discrete swelling within an otherwise apparently normal gland, is usually a benign lesion. However, patient and physician alike are typically concerned about the possibility of thyroid cancer.

Is solitary thyroid nodule cancer?

Clinically, solitary thyroid nodules are common, being present in up to 50% of the elderly population. The majority are benign with thyroid cancer representing an uncommon clinical problem. Investigation should include careful history and examination and thyroid function tests.

What is the treatment of choice for a Hyperfunctioning solitary thyroid nodule?

Conventional therapy for hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules includes radioactive iodine, surgery, and long-term pharmacotherapy [1,2]. Radioactive iodine therapy is accompanied by a 10–40% risk of hypothyroidism [1-3].

What is the most common cause of solitary thyroid nodule?

The most common cause of solitary thyroid nodules was follicular adenoma. Five of the 27 cold nodules were malignant (18.5%) while no malignancies were present in the warm or hot nodules.

What are suspicious thyroid nodules?

For example, nodules that do not have smooth borders or have little bright white spots (micro-calcifications) on the ultrasound would make your doctor suspicious that there is a thyroid cancer present. If the nodule appears suspicious on ultrasound and is larger than 1cm, the next step is to do a thyroid biopsy.

Can you tell if a thyroid nodule is cancerous from an Ultrasound?

The vast majority — more than 95% — of thyroid nodules are benign (noncancerous). If concern arises about the possibility of cancer, the doctor may simply recommend monitoring the nodule over time to see if it grows. Ultrasound can help evaluate a thyroid nodule and determine the need for biopsy.

At what size should thyroid nodules be removed?

Thyroid nodules are often diagnosed as benign by needle biopsy during a patient evaluation. Although these nodules are benign, almost all of them will enlarge or grow over time. Thus, size is one reason for benign thyroid nodule surgery. Any nodule that is 4 cm or larger should be removed with thyroid nodule surgery.