Second time round - thyroid issues

Last year I had a 13cm growth removed from my thyroid. It did contain a small carcinoma. I was told that there was a growth on the opposite gland but being a couple of mm they would leave it. 

I can feel that it has grown and I had another scan a couple of weeks ago. Instead of seeing me in clinic I received a letter from my doctor saying that there are several nodules on the gland and the biggest is 1cm so they have discharged me as they dont believe that they are cancerous! 

I have been angry, cried alot and Im frustrated. When the first carcinoma was removed they told me before hand that I did not have cancer, not until it was removed could they detect cancer. Then I was told that thyroid cancer is usually a secondary cancer. I have hereditory pancreatitis and have regular check ups as pancreatic cancer is a big killer in my family, we carry a gene for this. I have not seen my pancreatic doc for 3 years due to covid and because bloods are normal ny gp thinks all is ok. But from experience (both my own and family members) our bloods are alwys good despite cancer being present! 

I dont know how to move forward and I am terrified that something has been left and missed. 

  • The good thing is that most forms of thyroid cancer are pretty slow growing, so even if they have missed something, it is unlikely to do any harm in the immediate term. I probably had it for at least 5 years before I was diagnosed as you can see the nodule in photographs now that I know what I am looking for and it still didn't cause any symptoms and the doctor and nurse didn't think it was likely to for a good few years yet. My nodule, by the way was 10.5 cm and still the cancer hadn't spread anywhere concerning.

    Thyroid nodules are very common and the vast majority are benign. The fact that they don't think they are cancerous is great news.

    And thyroid cancer can definitely be a primary cancer. It's one of the more common among younger women. And it is very common not to be able to diagnose it until they remove it. 

  • Hi [@Sheepmum]‍ 

    im so sorry to hear this and I completely understand your anger and upset. I was diagnosed with breast cancer and got the all clear days before the pandemic. I've seen no one regarding my breast cancer since. 
     

    I now have a lump on my thyroid and have found out that it was spotted years ago but the decision was made to watch and wait - news to me!!!

    I'd encourage you to push. The system is very broken at the moment and it's devastating all round. But you need some reassurance. Sending healthy wishes x