Thyroid Enlargement: Is Surgery Necessary for Abnormal Cells?

Thyroid gland

I have been experiencing thyroid enlargement for about two months.
I underwent a thyroid ultrasound and fine needle aspiration biopsy.
The results showed abnormal cells.
The doctor recommended surgery.
May I ask: 1.
Does this mean I have thyroid cancer? 2.
Is surgery necessary? 3.
Is there any risk involved? Thank you for your answers.

Xiao Feng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/30

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Miss Xiaofeng,
The results of the fine needle aspiration biopsy of your thyroid show abnormal cells.
The most definitive method to determine whether it is thyroid cancer is through a surgical biopsy, which will require an operation.
All surgeries carry certain risks; however, the risks associated with thyroid surgery are generally low.
Once you decide to proceed with the surgery, the physician will likely provide further explanations regarding the associated risks and potential complications.
Without a definitive diagnosis, treatment cannot be initiated.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Dr.
Wu

Reply Date: 2006/09/30

More Info

When it comes to thyroid enlargement and the presence of abnormal cells, it's understandable to have concerns, especially when surgery is suggested. Let's break down your questions regarding the situation.

1. Is this thyroid cancer?
The presence of abnormal cells in a thyroid nodule does not automatically indicate cancer. The term "abnormal cells" can refer to a variety of conditions, including benign (non-cancerous) changes, inflammation, or atypical cells that may warrant further investigation. Thyroid nodules are quite common, and many are benign. However, the risk of malignancy increases with certain characteristics, such as size, shape, and the presence of specific features on ultrasound. The definitive diagnosis often requires a combination of cytological analysis from fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy and imaging studies. If your doctor has recommended surgery, it may be due to the characteristics of the nodule or the cytological findings that suggest a higher risk of cancer.

2. Is surgery necessary?
Surgery is often recommended when there is a significant concern for malignancy, especially if the FNA results are indeterminate or suggestive of a follicular neoplasm, which can be challenging to diagnose definitively without surgical intervention. In cases where there are abnormal cells, surgery may be considered to remove the nodule and obtain a more comprehensive pathological evaluation. This is particularly true if the nodule is large, symptomatic, or if there are concerning features on imaging. Ultimately, the decision for surgery should be made collaboratively between you and your healthcare provider, taking into account the risks and benefits specific to your case.

3. Is there a risk involved with surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, thyroid surgery carries risks. Common risks include bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding structures, such as the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which can affect your voice, and the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels in the body. However, when performed by an experienced surgeon, the risks are generally low, and the benefits of removing a potentially malignant nodule often outweigh these risks. It's essential to discuss your specific concerns with your surgeon, who can provide detailed information about the procedure, the expected outcomes, and the potential complications.

In summary, while the presence of abnormal cells raises concerns, it does not definitively mean you have thyroid cancer. Surgery may be necessary to obtain a clearer diagnosis and to manage any potential malignancy. It's crucial to have an open discussion with your healthcare provider about your specific situation, the rationale for surgery, and any concerns you may have regarding the procedure and its risks. They can provide personalized guidance based on your health history and the findings from your tests.

Similar Q&A

Do You Really Need Surgery for Thyroid Enlargement?

Hello! I recently visited the hospital due to a swollen area in my neck. The doctor assessed it as a thyroid enlargement. However, my blood tests for T3, T4, and TSH levels were all normal, and only the ultrasound showed the enlargement. The doctor mentioned that there is no medi...

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
Miss Star: If your blood test results are normal and the ultrasound examination does not raise suspicion of a malignant tumor, you may also choose to opt for observation and follow-up.

Thyroid Tumors: When Is Surgery Necessary for 0.7 cm Growth?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if a thyroid enlargement of about 0.7 cm requires surgical treatment. Will it affect swallowing function? Some doctors suggest monitoring, while others recommend removal. I would like to know at what size surgery is typically recommended.

Dr. Lin Zhiguang reply Surgery
Hello, when considering whether to perform surgery for thyroid enlargement, two main factors should be taken into account: first, the need to rule out malignancy, and second, the presence of significant thyroid hormone imbalance. The decision is not solely based on size. A 0.7 cm...

Understanding Thyroid Enlargement: Concerns and Solutions

Hello, doctor! I have had an enlarged thyroid for a long time... since kindergarten or elementary school, and it is still enlarged now! I don't feel any discomfort. However, many people keep saying that this is abnormal and that I should see a doctor! I have seen doctors, ha...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
In general, there are many causes of goiter, commonly including hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, thyroid nodules, and a small percentage of thyroid tumors. Clinically, in addition to symptoms and physical examination, blood tests, ultrasound examinations, or other im...

Understanding Thyroid Enlargement: When Is Surgery Necessary?

I would like to inquire about the issue of thyroid enlargement. Currently, I can see that my neck is noticeably larger, but only one side is enlarged, and it seems that the trachea is being compressed on one side, although it does not affect my breathing. I have previously underg...

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid
Hello! Generally speaking, a thyroid nodule is a benign tumor, and there is still a chance of recurrence after surgical removal. Since it is not a malignant tumor (cancer), surgery is often not urgent; however, surgery may be considered under the following circumstances: 1. Compr...