PET scan 'lit up thyroid", nondiagnostictic FNA biopsy result

[mommygail]

When I went to emergency department for treatment of bowel obstruction symptoms, Xrays showed a new nodule on lung and spot on liver-new. CT scan of chest showed nodules in thyroid. I had a PET scan next which only lit up the thyroid. My PCP sent me to an endocrinoligist for a FNA. The results show not enough cells to make a diagnosis. Against my preference, I am only scheduled for another FNA to be done by another doctor at the hospital. The first was guided by ultrasound. The endocrinoligist's nurse informed me I am not a patient of his. Do I need to insist on having an endocrinoligist follow up on the second biopsy for treatment ? I am attempting to get a refereral to another endocrinoligist right now. My PCP is on vacation for the next month.

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

A common cause of the whole thyroid lighting up on PET is hashimoto's thyroiditis - would test TPO antibodies and clarify if this is the entire thyroid or a focal nodule.  IF a focal nodule, then 30-40% risk cancer and good FNA for diagnosis is important.  Sounds like consulting with another endo (preferably one who does his/her own ultrasound and specializes in thyroid) is appropriate.

[mommygail]

Thanks for the answer. I have 3 nodules, one on each lobe and one that covers the isthmus. Only the right side lit up. First doctor did ultrasound guided FNA on 2. He mentioned  micro calcification in one and irregular edges as he was doing the biopsy as why he did the 2 he choose. He was only allowed to do 2 in his office. How do I locate an endo who specializes in thyroids ?