I have a lump on my thyroid. Is it cancer?

Hearing you have a "nodule" is scary, but here is the most important fact: 90% to 95% of thyroid nodules are BENIGN (not cancer). They are simply overgrowths of normal thyroid tissue or fluid-filled cysts. They are extremely common; by age 60, about half of all people have one.

How do we know if it's cancer?

Doctors use a system to rate the risk:

• Ultrasound: This looks at the nodule's features. Cysts (fluid) are almost never cancer. Solid nodules with ragged edges or calcium spots are more suspicious.
• Blood Tests: To check if the thyroid is working normally.
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: If the nodule looks suspicious or is large (>1-1.5 cm), a thin needle is used to take a few cells. This is the gold standard for diagnosis.

What happens if it is benign?

Usually, nothing! We call this "Active Surveillance." You will likely have an ultrasound every year to make sure it isn't growing. You do not need surgery for a small, benign nodule.

When is surgery needed?

• If the biopsy shows cancer or is "suspicious."
• If the nodule is so large it causes trouble swallowing or breathing.
• If the nodule is "toxic" (producing too much hormone and causing hyperthyroidism).