1. Cancer? Not Likely
Although having any strange lumps or bumps in any organ of your body is scary, thyroid cysts generally are not cancerous. This can be confirmed with a biopsy. Often the cysts are fluid filled, which means the body will re-absorb the fluid over time. This basically means the thyroid will heal itself. If, however, the biopsy shows any solid and cystic components, then you should regard these as something more serious. These are "complex" cysts or tumors, but only about five percent of thyroid nodules are cancerous.
2. Biopsy Answers the Cancer Question
When visiting your endocrinologist, he may do what is called a FNB, or fine needle biopsy of your thyroid tissue. The doctor might even perform this right in the office if it's equipped for that type of procedure. The fine needle used in the biopsy is just that, a very fine needle that removes a few cells from the thyroid cyst so a lab can look at it under a microscope to determine if there are any cancer cells. Remember, a biopsy is the only way to determine for sure if the thyroid cysts are cancerous.
3. Some Symptoms Are Malignant
Thyroid cysts are typically silent, meaning they don't cause any symptoms. Your doctor may feel them upon examination, or if the cyst is large enough, a noticeable lump may appear on your neck. Some other symptoms that may indicate thyroid dysfunction include unexplained weight loss, nervousness and rapid heartbeat. These are indications that the cyst is causing your thyroid to produce too much thyroxine, which is the thyroid hormone. Symptoms that may indicate malignancy include a cyst that grows quickly or is hard, a cyst that causes you to become hoarse or have trouble swallowing or having an enlarged lymph node under your jaw or neck.
4. Causes Are Mysterious
No one knows what causes thyroid nodules. Thyroid cysts are just one type of nodule that appear on the thyroid gland. As stated before, cysts can carry malignancy, especially if they are complex cysts with both fluid and solid components. There are risk factors that may determine whether you will get thyroid nodules. These risk factors include a family history of thyroid nodules, being female, aging, a history of radiation therapy and thyroiditis, which is a chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland.
5. See a Doctor
If you have any unusual swelling in the front part of your neck, have trouble swallowing or breathing, or feel like you have a lump in your throat, call your doctor. Also, call your doctor if you have any symptoms of hyperthyroidism. These include sudden weight loss, pounding heart, nervousness or irritability, trouble sleeping or muscle weakness. Your doctor will order a simple blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels.
