Thyroid Nodules and Ovarian Cysts...related?

[Prisslozzi]

About three weeks ago during a regular check up w/ my gyn, he discovered a cyst on my left ovary. An ultrasound confirmed a 2.1X2.7 complex, septated cyst. I recieved a copy of the report from the lab and it also mentions that I have cystic changes in my endometrial lining. My gyn told me to make an appointment for a month and we will re-evalutate the cyst. Then just this week I went to an ENT to have my sinuses evaluated for chronic sinusitis and he discovered a Thyroid Nodule in my thyroid. I have an appointment this week for an u/s of my thyroid. I have a family history of colon cancer and thyroid disorders, hyper and hypo. Both family members had to have a total thyroidectomy. I have almost all the characteristics of having Hypothyroidism, but only a year ago, after an evaluation by an endocronologist my TSH was normal and no mention of a nodule. I was wondering if the two disorders could be related? What is a "worrisome" size of a thyroid nodule? I can feel it, although its not visible on the outside and I have a heavy full feeling in the bottom of my throat. I'm concerned about both issues, but relieved, b/c I thought I was going crazy with all of the minor symptoms I was experiencing. Now it seems that they are related and possibly, (hopefully) resolved.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

A nodule usually is associated with normal thyroid function - so having the characteristics of hypothyroidism has little to do with the nodule -- the labs are still the most important in this regard (TSH, FT4, antibodies).

There is a rare connection of familial polyposis (colon polyps which lead to cancer) and thyroid cancer but I imagine the family history of colon cancer is un-related.  The family history of thyroid disease underscores the importance of checking antibodies.

Usually we FNA nodules above 1cm but 90-95% of these are benign.

The thyroid nodule is not likely related to the ovarian cyst - at least no reported connection as of yet.

[gulfbuck]

A related discussion, Tyroid Cancer, Ovarian cysts, menopause was started.

[irishlynn]

A related discussion, Thyroid & ovarian cysts & IVF & menopause was started.

[ChitChatNine]

I had 2 papillary microcarcinomas found in Jan and 2 yrs ago they found an atypical colon polyp during colonoscopy ... I am due for f/up colonoscopy and after reading your post from the Dr. I will DEFINITELY not lag behind in having that done.  Thanks to the Dr. for posting that possible connection .. very important to keep on top of things.

Cheryl

[february]

I had a microcarcinoma of the thyroid and also a hx. of breast cancer.  I questioned my dr. regarding my ovaries and possible removal if there is a chance there is a relationship bx. all these organs.  He mentioned to me that possibly I should go to a gene specialist regarding  possible PTEN syndrome (Cowden syndrome)...it is a VERY rare syndrome and people with it have a hx. of colon polyps, ovarian and endometrial cysts and cancer,  breast tumors, thyroid cancer, skin conditions, and one sign is a macrocephaly (large head). I guess I will go for genetic testing...just thought I would mention it to you as a relationship bx thyroid and ovarian cysts.   I think you have to have a few of the listed symptoms or diseases to be considered for testing and possibly having the syndrome.  Maybe you could read up on it as I am writing from my memory and that leaves some room for errors :)