How are thyroid nodules diagnosed?
Although most patients with thyroid nodules are asymptomatic, occasionally patients complain of dysphagia, dysphonia, pressure, pain, or symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Absence of symptoms does not rule out a malignant lesion; thus, it is important to review risk factors for malignant disease. One of the first steps in diagnosing a thyroid nodule is a careful physical examination of the entire head and neck area by a trained specialist. It is also important to test blood levels of thyroid hormone to check for excessive hormone production.
