About Karen Brawner Expertise I will answer any questions you have regarding the thyroid whether it be cancer, cysts (types), hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, blood tests for thyroid problems, surgery, fine needle biopsies etc...
Experience My complex cysts on my right thyroid gland and the isthmus were found my accident when my doctor thought I was having a TIA. The ultrasound found a complex cysts the size of a golf ball (which turned out to be the size of a tennis ball when it was surgically remove). Doctors were totally surprised because for 5 years, including the day I went to surgery, all of my thyroid blood work was "within the normal range". So much for blood work being conclusive..
Question I have two nodules on my thyroid, one tiny, and the other 2.3cm. Antithyroglobulin level is above 700, but thyroid hormones are normal. I am also experiencing intermittent pain in the thyroid as well as in the side of my neck, and in the muscles near my collarbone. A Fine needle aspiration shows: 'Few groups of follicular cells and Hurthle cells present in a background with numerous macrophages. The morphologic features are most consistent with nodular goiter.' My Dr. said it is a benign report, but the other info. I've read says diagnosis is not that simple. Can Hurthle cells be ruled for certain as benign from a FNA?
Thanks, Cheryl
Answer Dear Cheryl, FNA are not accurate all the time.... Infact, there are 2 types of thyroid cancer that usually a FNA can not determine..... This is why most all doctors prefer to surgically remove the thyroid gland these nodules are connected to and do a COMPLETE tissue biopsy....
No, Hurthle cells can not be ruled for certain from a FNA.. The only way to know for SURE if anything is benign is to have it completely removed and biopsied... A FNA will NOT tell if there is any invasion or for sure if this condition is benign....
Since you are having pain, I would suggest to be on the safe side, that you get a second opinion from a SURGEON.... This surgeon can be an Endocrinologist/Surgeon or a General Surgeon...
Here is a web site that will give you a LOT of information about the thyroid, cancers, and Hurthle cells...
