What are the chances I have thyroid cancer?
I know there is a 5% chance of cancer if only a nodule is found. BUT I have been having unknown health problems for 4 years. They found my thyroid level to be pretty low. The nodule was mostly solid and the ultrasound couldnt rule cancer out. I didnt see anything about hot or cold. The specialist said he cant see me for 2 months. Ofcourse I am not going to wait that long. Does it seem like my chances are higher than 5%?
I guess it is hard to tell, unless I know more about you, but I will try my best to give you some risk factors so you can have a general idea.
Risk factor for thyroid cancer can generally divided intrinsic and extrinsic.
Intrinsic risk factors are woman, elderly, and family history of thyroid cancer like MEN syndrome, FAP, etc.
Extrinsic risk factors are diet low in iodide, prior radiation
But the only way to be sure is to do a Fine needle aspiration. (For some time, like follicular cancer, an excisional biopsy is needed)
Hope that helps. Good luck
Get a needle Bx. Probably benign and you’ll feel better when it’s done.