Medical Health Tests Thyroid Biopsy

What Is Thyroid Biopsy

A thyroid biopsy, also called thyroid nodules biopsy is the test where a skinny needle is pushed into this particular gland so as to obtain some thyroid cells, as well as fluid. These samples are then used by doctors to further understand any thyroid disorders. Thyroid fine needle aspiration biopsy is another name given to this type of test. To get a better understanding of thyroid biopsy, let us first examine the thyroid. Now this gland can be located in one's neck, in the upper region. The trachea (windpipe) is found just behind this gland. This gland, in turn, forms a part of the larger endocrine (hormonal) system. The importance of the thyroid is largely due to its part in the regulation of the human body's metabolism.

Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders

If thyroid disorders or even thyroid cancer is suspected, this thyroid fine needle aspiration biopsy may be recommended. Thyroid lumps could also be a cause for concern, leading to a thyroid biopsy. This is because of the possibility of thyroid cancer due to tumors.

Causes for Thyroid Disorders

Due to the results of a thyroid ultrasound, a biopsy may be performed. This is typically because of thyroid lumps which can be indicated by an ultrasound or even detected directly by physical examination could be cancerous. Thus, suspect cases of disorders or cancer involving the thyroid mean that this test could be recommended. Results which aren't normal could indicate diseases like goiter, thyroid cancer or simply some noncancerous tumors. Sometimes it is used to get to the root cause of the disease of goiter.

Treatment for Thyroid Disorders

The fine nature of the needle used in a thyroid biopsy makes the use of anesthesia rather redundant. After you lie down, you will have your biopsy area first cleansed. Under thyroid fine needle aspiration biopsy, this needle goes right into your gland. Some of these cells along with the fluid are then taken out. If you experience bleeding, simple pressure is used to stop this. Since this is your throat area, a bandage will then be used. In the case of an open thyroid biopsy on the other hand, an incision is utilized to examine your thyroid gland. In case of such a biopsy, you might be told to steer clear of both food and drink for approximately ten hours before actual examination.

To avoid complications, you will need to tell your doctor of things such as pregnancy, antithyroid medicines or medical allergies. With a thyroid biopsy, pain may be limited to the stinging sensation that usually accompanies the insertion of a needle.