Cancer Research UK main site

Thyroid query

Sharza
Offline

I had a PET/CT scan done for lung cancer. An incidental finding was that a lump on my thyroid was found which was avid (ie it lit up). I had no thyroid symptoms.

So a Neck ultrasound and FNA (biopsy) was done. The ultrasound result was U2 (ie benign). However the FNA report said that there was the possibility that the lump was an oncocytic neoplasm and was given a Thy3a classification (ie indeterminate). This was in February this year.

The multidisciplinary team (MDT) reviewed these results and recommended a further Neck ultrasound and FNA. I had this done yesterday and the ultrasound result is still U2. The FNA result will be ready in time for my meeting with the thyroid consultant next week.

In the event that yesterday's FNA is still Thy3a what is the usual practice? Is it further surveillance or removal of one lobe, if appropriate (hemithyroidectomy), or both lobes (thyroidectomy)? 

Thank you.

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    It is difficult to find published specific guidelines, but there is information provided by the NHS, from Cambridge University Hospitals about thyroid biopsy findings

    In this link, it says that 

    Thy 3: Some abnormal cells seen and these are probably not cancerous but we cannot be sure. We may recommend a repeat biopsy or surgical removal of part of the thyroid gland containing the nodule to determine its cause. About 20-30% of nodules in this category are cancerous.

    I hope this helps, and you have a useful consultation with your specialist.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Yours sincerely,

    Vanda

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Vanda

    Dear Vanda,

    Thank you very much for your reply which was most helpful.

    I now feel better prepared for my meeting with the thyroid consultant next week.

    Sharon 

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.