Second opinion - endo or surgeon?

[daniel1952]

My daughter, 26 years old, has had a FNA and Hurthle cells were found, so she has been referred by her endocrinologist to a surgeon.  We want a second opinion, but with which type of provider -- another endocrinologist or another surgeon?

Also, any pointers to information so that we can educate ourselves on this topic would be appreciated, as would any recommendations on providers in the Boston area.  Additional information that may be relevant is that my wife (my daughter's mother) has Hashimoto's.

[redheadaussie]

Often people with Hashimoto's will develop Hurthle cells. Not always, but it is common.
Hurthle cells are not something to be taken lightly. It is more than likely benign as there has to be at least 90% hurthle cells in the sample to count as a carcinoma. Most are under 75%.
  Personally I would not like to go for another FNA. I have had 3 and they are very uncomfortable. You could ask to have the sample previously taken to be re-assessed by another pathologist. If your daughter is willing to go through another FNA then you could go to another endocrinologist. But in all seriousness I doubt it would be any different than the first sample.
  
   I had Hurthle cells in 2 of my FNA's taken from entirely different sections of my right gland. It had to be surgically removed. I think a surgeon who knows endocrinology is far better than just a throat surgeon. But they are hard to find, so you may have to work with both.
   When you google Hurthle Cells don't be alarmed at seeing cancer and carcinoma, these are the MINORITY! Not the majority, and it can freak a person out when first looking it up!
  
  If you need any  other advice I am more than happy to chat!

[Totie]

Endocrinologist would be my guess. The surgeon will just do the surgery. If you want confirmation on the diagnosis, I would say Endo.