ENT or ENDO???

[minnie64]

In the last two weeks, I have been experiencing neck swelling and tenderness under my chin. I went to see my GP and she ordered an U/S because she could also see my thyroid was inflamed and neck lumpy. I still have tenderness (soreness) if I talk too much and have an almost 'choking' sensation which comes and goes. My THYROID U/S showed the following;

'...A single nodule is demonstrated in the upper pole region on the left. It measures approx 1cm in diameter, with a heterogeneous appearance. The lesion is solid, with a peripheral hypoechoic halo.

Colour doppler examination demonstrates normal vascularity on both sides.

COMMENT: A solitary nodule is demonstrated within the upper pole of the left lobe of the left lobe of the thyroid gland, measuring 1cm in diameter. The lesion is solid, with a hypoechoic halo. No other abnormality demonstrated. '

Has anyone had a similar US result as me? My GP is sending me for a biopsy to set my mind at ease. Please, if anyone out there had similar US let me know.

I know this is the ENT site but I was just wondering if I should also see an ENT as well??? I haven't seen an EDNO yet. Please help me. I dont really have a 'SORE' throat and am not hoarse at all. Just tenderness and swelling after too much vocal exercise..(talking, etc.).

Cheers. :))

[OtoHNS_MD]

I doubt a single 1cm nodule would be causing your symptoms.  That being said, I still agree with a fine needle biopsy (FNA) of the nodule.  95% of the time they are benign.  The difficulty is that sometimes, it eventually requires removing half of the thyroid to truly say it is benign.  An FNA + for cancer is a no brainer...surgery to remove the entire thyroid.  An FNA that is indeterminate doesn't really help.  A negative FNA does not necessarily mean there's no cancer...the needle may have missed the area that is cancerous.  After a negative FNA, it is reasonable to wait and repeat the ultrasound in 6-12 months.  If there's an increase in size or any concerning features on the ultrasound (like calcifications) you could consider surgery at that time.  

I would see an ENT for your symptoms as well as the thyroid nodule.  An endocrinologist is not a bad idea especially if you have any abnormal thyroid blood tests.