What is a T2 thyroid nodule?

T2: The tumor is larger than 2 cm but smaller than 4 cm and is limited to the thyroid. T3: The tumor is larger than 4 cm, but the tumor does not extend beyond the thyroid gland. T4: The tumor is any size and has extended beyond the thyroid.

Can a radiologist tell if a thyroid nodule is cancerous?

The only way to definitively determine if a thyroid nodule is cancerous is to examine it under a microscope. The most common method is called fine need aspiration (FNA) biopsy, where a very small needle is inserted into the thyroid nodule and cells are removed for microscopic examination.

What size thyroid nodule is suspicious?

Our study found that the highest malignancy risk was observed in nodules <2 cm and no increase in malignancy risk for nodules >2 cm. Thyroid nodules 1.0-1.9 cm in diameter provided baseline cancer risk for comparison (64.8% risk of cancer).

What percentage of suspicious thyroid nodules are cancerous?

Studies report on possibility of thyroid cancer in about 5% of thyroid nodules. Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is the best way to find out whether a thyroid nodule is cancerous or benign. Since most of the thyroid nodules are not cancer, it is important to know which nodules should undergo biopsy.

What types of thyroid nodules are cancerous?

Most nodules are cysts filled with fluid or with a stored form of thyroid hormone called colloid. Solid nodules have little fluid or colloid and are more likely to be cancerous.

What are the symptoms of cancerous thyroid nodules?

Symptoms

  • A lump (nodule) that can be felt through the skin on your neck.
  • A feeling that close-fitting shirt collars are becoming too tight.
  • Changes to your voice, including increasing hoarseness.
  • Difficulty swallowing.
  • Swollen lymph nodes in your neck.
  • Pain in your neck and throat.

Is a 2 cm thyroid nodule considered large?

A diagnosis of cancer was made in 10.5% of nodules measuring 1 – 1.9 cm. The risk of cancer increased to 15% of nodules greater than 2 cm. In nodules that were larger than this 2 cm threshold, the cancer risk was unchanged.

Can you tell if a thyroid nodule is cancerous from an Ultrasound?

The vast majority — more than 95% — of thyroid nodules are benign (noncancerous). If concern arises about the possibility of cancer, the doctor may simply recommend monitoring the nodule over time to see if it grows. Ultrasound can help evaluate a thyroid nodule and determine the need for biopsy.