If your doctor suspects you have thyroid cancer, you will need a thorough evaluation to confirm the diagnosis. We will take the time to explain your diagnosis and treatment options in a way that you can easily understand.
Your evaluation will include:
- Physical exam, including an exam of your thyroid gland
- Detailed review of your medical history and symptoms
- Discussion of your family history of cancer
Our testing includes in-office ultrasound and biopsy testing with test results during your visit.
We use ultrasound to diagnose thyroid cancer. This test creates images using sound waves. Ultrasound helps us see if a thyroid nodule is cancerous. It can also show the number and size of nodules. Ultrasound also shows if nearby lymph nodes are enlarged.
Other imaging tests we may use include:
- Radioiodine scan: This test helps us see if a neck lump might be cancerous or if cancer has spread. During this test, you swallow a pill with a small amount of radioactive iodine. Several hours later, we use a camera to measure the amount of radiation in your thyroid. Areas that absorb less radioactivity could be cancerous.
- MRI scan: We may use an MRI after an ultrasound. MRI can show cancerous areas of the body.
We may also perform a biopsy to help us diagnose thyroid cancer. For this test, we insert a small, thin needle to remove a tiny sample.
We offer immediate, onsite testing of biopsy samples. This means you get results right away and don’t have to wait. Faster testing also allows us to start planning treatment right away if you need it.
We offer molecular testing of thyroid samples. Molecular testing gives us more information when biopsy results are unclear.
In most cases, if biopsy results don’t give a clear diagnosis, you need surgery. With molecular testing, we can eliminate most unneeded surgery.
Our on-site pathology team provides real-time feedback during biopsy. This lets us collect extra samples for molecular testing if we need them. Molecular testing ensures you get the most accurate diagnosis possible.
When you are diagnosed with thyroid cancer, it is common to feel a sense of urgency around starting treatment.
However, in most cases, there is time to do the needed research to ensure that your diagnosis is correct. That may include getting a second opinion.
Our team of experts works together to diagnose, treat and prevent thyroid cancer, with a focus on individualized patient care.
Markey is among the best cancer centers in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report, when it comes to advanced treatment options, survival rates and experienced providers. As the first and only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in Kentucky, Markey can serve many patients each year with rare and common cancers, including thyroid cancer.
Our specialized team is happy to work with your doctors and communicate to ensure confidence in your diagnosis.
Should I get a second opinion?
A second opinion can help to ensure that you will be getting the latest and most effective therapy for treating thyroid cancer. The following are common reasons for seeking a second opinion after your initial diagnosis:
- A dedicated team specialized in thyroid cancer may not be available in your area.
- There may be uncertainty around the stage of thyroid cancer.
- You are having difficulty understanding your diagnosis.
- You may want to learn more about different treatment options, including clinical trials and advanced technologies only available at an advanced center like Markey.
- Your health insurance requires a second opinion before continuing toward treatment.
Questions to ask when getting a second opinion
After receiving a cancer diagnosis, you may have a lot on your mind. Here a few questions to keep in mind for your doctor when seeking a second opinion:
- Is there a chance that my medical problem could have a different diagnosis?
- Are there additional tests I should take before moving forward with treatment?
- Do you recommend any treatments at this time?
- What do you expect to happen if I wait or don't have the treatment?
- What are the side effects of treatment?
- How long are treatment recovery periods?
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