Dr Elad Dagan
Otolaryngology
Head and Neck Surgery

A thyroid nodule is a small lump that forms in the thyroid gland, which sits at the front of the neck.

Thyroid nodules are very common. More than half of adults may develop them, especially after the age of 50, however some nodules needs investigation.

They can develop from normal thyroid tissue growth, fluid-filled cysts, thyroid inflammation, but could also be thyroid cancer.

Many nodules do not cause symptoms. If symptoms occur, they may include a lump in the neck. Depending on the size and location of the nodules it can cause difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and sometimes even signs of an overactive thyroid such as weight loss or fast heartbeat.

Most thyroid nodules are harmless, but about 7–15% may be cancerous.

Doctors usually do a neck exam, an ultrasound scan, thyroid blood tests, and sometimes a fine needle aspiration (FNA) to test the cells.

Treatment depends on the nodule type. Options include monitoring with scans, medication, surgery, or radioactive iodine for overactive nodules.

See a doctor if you notice a new neck lump, if the lump grows quickly, causes swallowing or breathing problems, or if you have a family history of thyroid cancer.

Book an appointment for assessment with Dr. Elad Dagan