Thyroid Nodule Growth Rates: What You Need to Know

The growth rate of thyroid nodules?

Hello Doctor, I recently discovered a thyroid nodule during a thyroid ultrasound at my health check-up.
Since I have not had an ultrasound before, I am unsure how long this nodule has been present.
I was concerned, so I immediately went to the hospital for a consultation.
Three days later, I had another ultrasound and underwent a fine-needle aspiration biopsy.
I am still waiting for the biopsy report, but I have a question regarding the size of the nodule.
During the first ultrasound at the health check-up center, the nodule was measured at 1.1 cm, but three days later at the hospital, it was measured at 1.4 cm.
Could this difference be simply a measurement error, or is it possible that the nodule has grown rapidly, increasing by 0.3 cm in just three days? I intended to bring the ultrasound images from the health check-up to discuss with my doctor at the next appointment, but since I tend to feel anxious, I wanted to ask for your opinion first.
Thank you.

Haha, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/24

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid

Ultrasound examinations are relatively subjective, which means that variations can occur due to differences in the operator, the machine used, and the timing of the examination.
Therefore, the measurements may not be identical, but the discrepancies should not be significant.

Reply Date: 2023/11/24

More Info

Thyroid nodules are common findings in ultrasound examinations, and their growth rates can vary significantly based on several factors. When you encounter a situation where a thyroid nodule appears to have increased in size over a short period, such as from 1.1 cm to 1.4 cm in just three days, it is natural to feel concerned. However, there are several important points to consider regarding the measurement and growth of thyroid nodules.

Firstly, measurement discrepancies can often occur due to the technique used during the ultrasound examination. Different operators may use slightly different methods or angles when measuring the same nodule, leading to variations in reported sizes. This is particularly true if the nodules are small or if they are located in areas that are difficult to visualize clearly. Therefore, a difference of 0.3 cm over three days could very well be attributed to measurement error rather than actual growth.

Secondly, while it is less common, thyroid nodules can indeed grow relatively quickly. Factors that may contribute to rapid growth include hormonal changes, inflammation, or even the presence of certain types of thyroid cancer. However, significant growth in such a short time frame is typically unusual for benign nodules. Most benign thyroid nodules grow slowly, if at all, and rapid growth is more often associated with malignancy.

In your case, since you have already undergone a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, the results of this procedure will be crucial in determining the nature of the nodule. The FNA will help ascertain whether the nodule is benign or malignant, and this information will guide further management. If the biopsy results indicate that the nodule is benign, it is likely that the size discrepancy is due to measurement error rather than rapid growth.

Additionally, it is essential to consider the clinical context. If you have symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, changes in voice, or signs of hyperthyroidism, these may warrant more urgent evaluation. However, if you are asymptomatic and the nodule is stable or benign, regular monitoring may be all that is necessary.

In summary, while it is understandable to be anxious about the growth of a thyroid nodule, it is important to consider the possibility of measurement error and to await the results of the FNA biopsy. If the nodule is confirmed to be benign, your healthcare provider may recommend periodic ultrasound follow-ups to monitor for any changes in size. If you continue to feel anxious, discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider can help alleviate some of your worries and provide you with a clearer understanding of your situation.

Lastly, it is always beneficial to keep a record of your ultrasound images and measurements, as this can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider during follow-up visits. Remember, you are not alone in this process, and many patients share similar concerns regarding thyroid nodules. Regular communication with your healthcare team will help ensure that you receive the best possible care and support.

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