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What are Thyroid Nodules?
Thyroid nodules are very common. Up to 50% of the population may have a nodule somewhere in their thyroid gland. A nodule is a lump in an otherwise normal gland, and the vast majority of these are benign.
The nodule may represent an overgrowth of normal thyroid tissue, or a cyst containing fluid. Ultrasound scans can be helpful in determining the characteristics of the nodule and whether there is a single or multiple nodules.
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is also helpful in determining whether there is any cancer within the nodule.
Surgery may be indicated if the enlarged thyroid gland is causing symptoms, or if there is doubt about the diagnosis and malignancy is a concern.
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