What exactly do these results mean?

[lara1228]

I had an FNA of solid/fluid cystic mass on the right lobe of my thyroid.  According to the ultrasound this mass is about 6 cm, although the doctor said that it feels smaller.  My results came back as follows:

Sheets and scattered follicular cells, some of which show Hurthle cell features, amon g some colloid; favor nodular goiter with adenomatous Hurthle cell hyperplasia.  

I just wanted to clarify what all this means.  The surgeon told me that this is undeterminable and surgery is recommended.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

This is indeterminant.  80% are benign, but some of these need to come out to make sure it is not a cancer.  The pathologist is describing what he/she thinks to be a benign process.  If the 6cm mass is not causing any problems for you then the options are watching vs surgery, but some of these may be malignant.  If the antibodies are positive (ie, Hashimotos) - then the description is even more likely benign (Hurthle changes are not unusual in Hashimotos).

[lara1228]

Thank you!

[Lake Lover]

I'm just here to tell you if you need surgery to remove your thyroid it is not the end of a good life.  With proper replacement and a little time you won't know the difference.
Just make sure that your surgeon does at least 3-5 thyroid removal surgeries per week to make sure you get an expereinced one.  Some surgeons are now doing minimally invasive procedures which causes a scar of under 1 inch.  Newer doctors who have attended the Cleveland Clinic are being instructed this way.