Ultrasound-Guided Thyroid Biopsy in Denver
Get Answers With an Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy of the Thyroid
The thyroid is part of the endocrine system that affects the body's metabolism and growth. It is a small butterfly-shaped gland that lies in front of the trachea. The thyroid's primary function is to produce hormones that make many cells in your body function correctly. Its proper or improper function can affect our:
- Energy level
- Ability to sleep
- Muscle and digestive function
- Brain function
- Mood
- Ability to maintain a healthy heart rate
- Bone density health
The thyroid gland may enlarge or produce nodules to maintain adequate hormone production. We call these conditions thyromegaly and nodular or multinodular goiter, respectively. Some autoimmune conditions, such as Graves disease or Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, can also cause the thyroid gland to change shape or function. If the gland is actively inflamed, accompanied by an abrupt change in function, neck swelling, or neck redness, that may indicate a condition called toxic thyroiditis.
When imaging tests show suspicious findings, we may recommend a biopsy of the thyroid.
When Do You Need an Ultrasound-Guided Thyroid Biopsy?
Ultrasound uses a small hand-held transducer (wand) that emits sound waves to display images of the thyroid gland. The technologist and specialized radiologist use these images to interpret the findings. During a thyroid ultrasound, we examine:
The size of the thyroid gland
The thyroid gland’s texture
Nearby lymph nodes
Any nodules
The vessels of the thyroid gland
Radiologists use thyroid ultrasound to check any physiologic change in your clinical examination. A thyroid gland with excess vascularity can indicate hyperthyroidism, while low vascularity to the thyroid can be seen with hypothyroidism. Radiologists may also order an ultrasound if you have symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or hoarseness. Ultrasound may not be needed if you have a normal-sized gland.
Sometimes a single thyroid nodule enlarges and not the whole gland, which may necessitate a thyroid ultrasound-guided biopsy of the thyroid gland. Although most thyroid nodules appear benign (noncancerous), some have suspicious characteristics, such as an irregular shape or suspicious calcifications requiring a thyroid needle biopsy.
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