Thyroid Benign Tumor vice Nodule

[kanak1pake]

Hi,  Last week I was informed that the results of the FNA biopsy that was done to a lump on the right side of my thyroid was benign nodule and recommendation was to monitor the nodule and return in 4 months for another UT scan.   Today my ENT physician informed me that a 2nd pathogist diagnosed the FNA biopsy as a benign tumor and recommendation is to surgically remove.   I asked my ENT physician if we could have a 3rd opinion and the test results will be sent to Mayo Clinic for diagnosis.    I think this is a good idea before rushing into surgery.

What is the difference between having a Thyroid benign tumor vice nodule?    And if removal is necessary, how soon should I have this done?

[898]

There is no difference in these terms, the nodule is just more broad term.
If the nodule is not cancerous, does not cause compressive symptoms and is  not groving rapidly, it may be monitored.
Some places (Thyroid Clinic in Santa Monica ,CA, for example) are prforming the ethanol injection into the nodule which causes it to shrink.

[paulmac]

yes they are the same. I was diagnosed with same thing. Right side, three nodules- one was very large 3.2cm, second 9mm and third 5mm. ENT did FNA and two path's read it including Mayo. Then I went to Endo at USC and he gave me the two options- watch or remove. I was starting to get symtoms of compression on vocal cords and I use my voice alot for work. I opted for removal 3/18 and am getting better every day. The diagnoses was correct and only right side of thyriod was removed. No med's prescribed.
I am happy I had it removed. Good luck. I have heard of many people that have opted to watch the nodule and they had no symptoms.

[stella5349]

I totally agree - I don't know if it is just different terminlogy being used in the Dx.