How best to determine if Thyroid Nodule is cancerous

[jacksgranny]

Hello,
I am a 48 year old woman with a small nodule that measured 11mm back in December 09'. The nodule is solid.
I went to and Endochrinologist in January 10' who recommended an I131 uptake scan. I did not have the scan to date as I have quite a large insurance deductable to meet. When I explained this to the Doctor she suggested doing a biopsy in her office that could be sent to a pathologist.
My questions, will either test be difinitive in determining if the nodule is cancerous? Is this something that could be monitored with an ultrasound every six months or so? Finally, What is the significance of a solid nodule?
I appreciate your help.
Thank you.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

If the TSH (thyroid blood test) is normal, then the I-123 scan is of little to no use.  It is not an accurate way to determine if a nodule is cancer.
The best test is FNA biopsy.
5-10% of nodules are cancer.
If confirmed benign then follow with ultrasound every 6-18 months.

[jacksgranny]

Thank you for answering my question. Is the I123 scan the same as the I131 uptake scan?  I am also curious about the significance of a "solid" nodule vs a nodule that is not solid. Can an Endochrinologist perform an FNA biopsy in office or is it better to go to a hospital for this test?
Thanks again!
I appreciate your help.