Thyroid Nodules: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A thyroid nodule is a lump that develops in the thyroid gland, which may be solid or fluid-filled (cystic). Most thyroid nodules are non-cancerous (benign), but in some cases, they can be cancerous (malignant).

Thyroid nodules can occur in both men and women. In general, they are not dangerous. However, if they affect hormone production, they may lead to thyroid-related conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Causes of Thyroid Nodules

The exact cause of thyroid nodules is not fully understood, but several risk factors include:

Iodine Deficiency: A lack of iodine intake may contribute to the formation of thyroid nodules.
Excessive Thyroid Tissue Growth: Known as thyroid hyperplasia, this condition occurs when thyroid tissue grows abnormally, forming nodules.
Thyroid Cysts: Fluid-filled cysts can develop in the thyroid gland due to degeneration of a thyroid adenoma.
Thyroid Cancer: Although rare, some thyroid nodules result from malignant tumors or thyroid cancer.

Symptoms of Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid nodules typically do not cause symptoms and are often discovered accidentally during routine check-ups or imaging tests for other conditions. However, in some cases, symptoms may appear, such as:

Enlarged thyroid gland, forming a visible lump in the neck
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or breathing if the nodule presses against the esophagus or trachea
Hoarseness or voice changes
Pain in the neck area
If the nodule produces excess thyroid hormones, hyperthyroidism symptoms may occur, including weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness
If the nodule reduces or stops hormone production, hypothyroidism symptoms such as fatigue, thinning hair, and facial swelling may develop

Diagnosis of Thyroid Nodules

To diagnose thyroid nodules, doctors may perform several tests, including:

Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the neck and feel the thyroid gland for lumps.
Blood Tests: These measure thyroid hormone levels (T3, T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to evaluate thyroid function.
Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the thyroid gland and nodules, helping determine their size, location, and characteristics.
Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNA): A small tissue or fluid sample is taken from the nodule using a fine needle to be analyzed in a laboratory, particularly to check for cancer.
Thyroid Scan: Uses radioactive isotopes to assess the metabolic activity of the nodule and thyroid gland.

Treatment for Thyroid Nodules

Treatment depends on the type, size, and symptoms of the nodule. Common approaches include:

Observation: Benign nodules that do not cause symptoms usually only require regular monitoring with ultrasound and physical exams.
Medications: If the nodule causes hyperthyroidism, antithyroid drugs may be prescribed to reduce thyroid hormone production.
Radioiodine Therapy: Radioactive iodine can be used to shrink nodules that cause hyperthyroidism.
Surgery: Large nodules, symptomatic nodules, or those suspected of being cancerous may require partial or total removal of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy).
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A minimally invasive procedure used to shrink cystic nodules or nodules causing symptoms.

Preventing Thyroid Nodules

There is no definitive way to prevent thyroid nodules, but some steps can help maintain thyroid health:

Consume Iodine: Eat iodized salt and iodine-rich foods such as seafood and dairy products.
Regular Health Check-ups: Monitor thyroid health periodically, especially if you have a family history of thyroid disease.
Avoid Radiation Exposure: Limit exposure to high radiation levels that may damage the thyroid gland.

When to See a Doctor?

If you notice any suspicious symptoms, consult a doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.

For expert thyroid care, visit Mandaya Hospital. Our Indonesian Thyroid Center provides the best services for various thyroid conditions. Supported by experienced specialists and advanced medical equipment, we offer treatment options ranging from medication to ablation procedures for thyroid management.