Thyroid nodules

Question 1

define thyroid nodules?

Answer 1

: abnormal growth of thyroid cells that forms a lump in the thyroid gland.

Question 2

aetiology of thyroid nodules?

Answer 2

vast majority of thyroid nodules are BENIGN

Question 3

epidemiology of thyroid nodules?

Answer 3

• More common in WOMEN

Question 4

presenting symptoms of thyroid nodules?

Answer 4

ASYMPTOMATIC

• rarely cause pain
• rarely cause dysphagia

Question 5

most appropriate investigations for thyroid nodules?

Answer 5

• TFTs- most patients will be euthyroid
• Ultrasound - useful for determining the character of the thyroid nodules
• FNA - allows cytological analysis
• Radionuclide Isotope Scanning - checks iodine uptake
• CT/MRI - detect spread of thyroid cancer