Thyroid lumps

Lumps in the thyroid gland

HCA UK's experts can help to diagnose and treat a range of lumps, including thyroid lumps.

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About

The thyroid gland is located in the neck and produces hormones.A thyroid lump (nodule) is found in the thyroid gland, causing swelling. Swelling in the neck can also be caused by goitre (an enlarged thyroid gland). Most thyroid lumps and nodules are caused by abnormal growths of thyroid tissue and are benign (non-cancerous), but should be assessed.

Need to know

  • Symptoms of thyroid lumps icon plus

    Thyroid lumps (nodules) only produce symptoms as a result of their size or location within the thyroid gland. They can also be caused by fluid filled cysts. More than 95% are benign (non-cancerous), and they are three times more common in women than men. Malignant (cancerous) thyroid lumps are rare and usually treatable. The thyroid gland makes the hormones T3 and T4, which control your metabolic rate, and calcitonin which regulates the amount of calcium in your blood. The most common symptoms of thyroid lumps are: - swelling in the neck - hoarse voice - sore throat - difficulty swallowing - pain or discomfort in the throat

  • Diagnosis icon plus

    Thyroid lumps can be diagnosed in several ways. Your GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. Tests they recommend may include: - blood test (to determine how well the thyroid gland is working) - biopsy (a small sample of cells may be taken from the thyroid lump and examined under a microscope) - CT scan or ultrasound of the thyroid lump

  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    Treatment options for thyroid lumps depend on the type of lump/nodule you have, whether it is benign or malignant (cancerous) and your overall health and fitness. These may include: - surgery to remove the thyroid lump/nodule - surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid gland (total thyroidectomy or thyroid lobectomy) - thyroid hormone therapy - radioactive iodine treatment, where a radioactive substance is swallowed and travels through your blood to kill the cancer cells - chemotherapy to prevent the growth of cancer - radiotherapy to kill cancer cells through radiation

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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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