Help Understanding ,"Final Non-Gynecologic Cytology Report

[Mamat2u]

This is what I got in the mail after my FNA

3.1x2.1x2.4cm right upper A) Thyroid right upper, FNA: Atypical cells are present. Atypica follicular cell groups, macrophanges, and scant colloid, malignancy can't be ruled out.

2.4x1.7x2.3cm right lower thyroid nodule B) Thyroid right, FNA: negative for malignancy. Follicular cewll groups and colloid, consistent with benign colloid nodule.

I just got call to make apt with surgeon,..............?? I have not spoken to a Dr. about this. I did meet with surgeon but have decided not to have surgery right now, but I want to know more, what does this mean?

I mean I know everyone says surgery but I want to know more, what else can I do aside from surgery which is so drastic to me. I may NOT have cancer and to have surgery for no cancer seems drastic. Please help, suggest,............ anything. Thank you!

[Mamat2u]

Thank you SO MUCH for that, it really was quite helpful! Diagnostic surgery on MY THROAT seems so drastic. I really appreciate your time. This has been so difficult not actually speaking to a DR. after FNA, but just getting the results and being told to have sugery,.........??? THANK YOU!

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

good instincts to not rush to surgery.
Atypical FNAs are common and should carry a low chance of cancer.
Often when the FNA slides are sent to an expert, it is re-classified as benign.  If still "on the hook" we repeat FNA in 3 months to get more info, sometimes using molecular classifiers (such as Afirma in this case) in order to avoid a "diagnostic surgery".

[Mamat2u]

I am a 47 yr old female