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May 18, 2013
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Thyroid Nodules (cont.)

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Ultrasound of the thyroid

This is a test that uses sound waves to take a picture of the thyroid. Similar to the prenatal ultrasound of the fetus, a cold lubricant jelly is placed on the neck; then, using an external probe, ultrasound images of the thyroid gland are obtained.

An ultrasound can reveal which thyroid nodules are larger than 1-1.5 centimeters, requiring further evaluation for cancer.

In addition to size, other nodule characteristics that can be noted on a thyroid ultrasound include the following:

  • number of nodules,

  • location of nodules,

  • distinctness of borders,

  • fluid versus solid contents,

  • other nodule contents, such as calcium deposits, or

  • the amount of blood flow (certain newer ultrasound machines can assess blood flow to the thyroid and its nodules).

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Thyroid Nodules - Treatment

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Thyroid Nodule »

Nodular disease of the thyroid gland is prevalent in the United States.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


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