Altunizade Hospital
For detailed information and appointments: +90-536-906-0904
Assoc. Prof. Dr.
Mehmet Kostek
What is a thyroid nodule?
Thyroid nodules are lumps that originate from the cells of the thyroid gland. These nodules are of great importance in two respects.
Firstly, if the cells they contain are overactive, they can cause high levels of thyroid hormone in the body.
Secondly, there is a risk that the cells forming this nodule may be malignant.
Therefore, patients with thyroid nodules need to have both of these conditions evaluated in detail.
How can you tell if a thyroid nodule is benign or malignant?
Thyroid ultrasonography is the most accurate examination for thyroid nodules. The ultrasound provides a detailed examination of the thyroid nodule, including whether it is completely solid, the presence of fluid, calcification, and its relationship with surrounding tissues.
In cases of high risk, a procedure called Fine Needle Aspiration (FNAB) is performed under ultrasound guidance to obtain cell samples from within the nodule, which are then examined under a microscope by a pathologist. This examination may reveal benign, malignant, or suspicious results. In this case, it is essential to discuss the results with an experienced endocrine surgeon or endocrinologist to determine the next step.
What is Thyroid Cancer?
Thyroid cancer is a malignant disease of the thyroid gland, often discovered during examinations of thyroid nodules. In this condition, thyroid cells grow uncontrollably and can spread to the lymph nodes. Some types of thyroid cancer can also metastasize directly to other organs via the bloodstream.
The most common type is Papillary Thyroid Cancer, and long-term survival is possible with proper treatment. There are also subtypes such as Follicular and Medullary. Rarely, a type called Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer occurs, and survival in these patients is much shorter than with Papillary Cancer.
How is thyroid cancer treated?
Initial planning is crucial for patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer. By planning the correct surgical extent, the risk of repeated surgeries is eliminated. Generally, treatment for thyroid cancer patients begins with a properly planned surgical approach.
The pathology results should be used to determine whether Radioactive Iodine Therapy, commonly known as Atomic Therapy, is necessary. Targeted therapies may also be considered for individuals with more widespread disease, if deemed necessary.
Why is a multidisciplinary board important in thyroid cancer treatment?
The monitoring and treatment of thyroid cancer is a collaborative process carried out by endocrine surgeons, endocrinologists, and nuclear medicine physicians. At this stage, the extent of the initial surgery, the postoperative follow-up process, and whether radioactive iodine therapy (RAI) is needed must be determined.
In multidisciplinary councils, physicians from these specialties come together to plan the patient's treatment. Furthermore, the next steps in treatment are planned at each stage. These councils ensure that the most appropriate treatment and follow-up plan is developed for the patient, and that physicians work in coordination with each other and with the patient.
Therefore, we strongly recommend that patients scheduled for surgery due to thyroid cancer undergo surgery, treatment, and follow-up at hospitals that have specialists in Endocrine Surgery, Endocrinology, and Nuclear Medicine, where these specialists hold active council meetings, and where radioactive iodine therapy can be administered.
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