Significance of Solid Nodule and a few questions

[jacksgranny]

Thank you for answering my question. Is the I123 scan the same as the I131 uptake scan?  I am also curious about the significance of a "solid" nodule vs a nodule that is not solid. Can an Endochrinologist perform an FNA biopsy in office or is it better to go to a hospital for this test?
Thanks again!
I appreciate your help.

[jacksgranny]

Thank you for enlightening me. I think that armed with the information that you provided I will stop putting off addressing this. My nodule is solid. Now I just need to find an Endocrinologist that I am comfortable with, unfortunately I had a bad experience with the first one I saw. I have learned more here  from you than I did during my three visits with her (which amounted to 15 min. in all). I wish I lived in your area :)  
Thanks again

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

I-123 or I-131 can be used for scanning.  I -123 is probably best for nodules.
Scanning plays a limited role in the evaluation of nodules.
Ultrasound is better to determine solid vs cystic, but many nodules are complex (solid and cystic).  In general solid nodules are more likely a cancer than a cyst, but overall only 5-10% of nodules are cancer.
The endocrinologist can do ultrasound guided FNA in the office with a small needle - the radiologists in the hospitals often use larger needles.   It really depends on the person and technique, not the setting.  We do FNA's in the office and have better results and patient satisfaction than hospital.