What are the chances of my nodule being malignant?

[Mich474]

I was just wondering what the chances are, based on my ultrasound, that my nodule in my thyroid may be malignant. I have a history of PCOS, which is now being looked at as being more of thyroid disease rather than PCOS. (Which from my reading have very similar symptoms). I have had a recent pregnancy also, so I know that it is common for women to develop nodules after pregnancy.

My ultrasound report reads: The thyroid gland appeared normal apart from a single solid heterogeneous nodule in the lower pole of the right thyroid measuring 16 x 9 x 17mm. There was some internal vascularity within the nodule. The isthmus appeared normal. No lymph node enlargement.

I am not seeing my doctor for a couple of weeks, and reading up on the internet is making me stir-crazy! Could you please let me know - especially the terms heterogeneous and internal vascularity? Does blood supply within the nodule normally mean malignant? Thanks for your help.

[Nannny]

I was recently hospitalized for extreme pain.
I had a CT scan done on my lumbar/sacrum plus a CAT scan,
I was advised to get another CT done on my abdomen and an ultra sound. A Biopsy was also recomended.
I am worried to death! My doctor has stopped  seeing me because I owe him $116.00 that I don't have.
What kind of a doctor should I see todo these follow-ups ?
Thank You !
Nannny

[Mich474]

Went to the specialist today, who told me all my blood tests were completely normal. Is sending me for a fine needle aspiration tomorrow, and I will get those results next week. He said he was being overly cautious as he thinks it will be nothing. Can I just ask... Is it common for a nodule to be malignant when all the bloods indicate that everything is normal? Or... is it just what he is saying and he is just ruling out malignancy so that I can move on with things? I know I should be happy that the bloods were normal, but I cannot stop worrying about this. Any info would be great. Thanks

[KoalaEm]

Been exactly there.  It is still a very anxious time no matter what they tell you.  Once you hear the word 'malignant' in a sentence directed at your health even POSSIBLE is just too much!

Let us know how you go.
Em

[Mich474]

Hiya..

Just to let you know, I went to see my GP today instead of waiting for the specialist. Apparently heterogeneous is that there are different types of cell structures within the nodule. Homogenous means the same fluid - ie. a cyst. The internal vascularity means that there is blood running through the nodule, which is not an indicator of malignancy. Apparently my nodule is smooth around the edges which is a positive sign and my TSH has always been normal. I have booked in for a FNA next week and see my specialist then also. Fingers crossed! My GP said he wants FNA to rule out malignancy but he said I shouldn't be overly concerned. Easy for them to say!!! Will keep you updated. Thanks for advice.

[ChitChatNine]

Do not go crazy reading online .. I found it helpful but the what if scenarios are quite emotional with the not knowing .. I would think a biopsy will be next in line with the ultrasound findings giving rise to some concern but as the other poster mentioned the % is small it is malignent but I, of all people. do not like Stats as SOMEBODY has to make them up to become a statistical #.

I am sorry you have to wait so long to get in to see the Dr.  Just feel free to post here .. ok... we have been thru this and are here for you.

Cheryl

[KoalaEm]

Let me add... to reassure you somewhat that 95% of solitary thyroid nodules are benign.

Em

[KoalaEm]

Vascularity: mine was and mine was benign.  I agree I have read that it can be an indicator of malignancy- but not always.
Hetrogeneous- refers to the 'texture' of the lump.  Homogenous is better as it means it's smooth rather than bump, bumpy increases a malignant indicator. That said mine was Hetrogeneous and benign.
Can you get in earlier to the Dr?  That waiting time nearly sent me psychotic and I only waited 2 days!  Did the ultrasound people fax a copy of the report to your Dr? If s/he is concerned they may bring your appointment forward.  If all else fails... tears work well and I found they came pretty easily while I stressed and worried about my results.
From what you have said, I predict you may be referred for a fine needle biopsy.  If possible, book it now as I had to wait 2 weeks for my biopsy appointment and I am sure after waiting to see the Dr the last thing you want is to then wait again for the biopsy.  You can always cancel the appointment if the Dr doesn't want to biopsy.
Try not to stress. (I know, like telling the ocean not to have tides).
Em