Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the thyroid gland. It is a relatively uncommon type of cancer, but its incidence has been increasing in recent years. According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that there will be over 44,000 new cases of thyroid cancer in the United States in 2021. Fortunately, the prognosis for most cases of thyroid cancer is good, with a 5-year survival rate of over 98%.
The Role of the Thyroid
The thyroid gland is a small gland located in the neck that produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolism. Imaging plays a critical role in the diagnosis and management of thyroid cancer. There are several types of thyroid imaging tests that can be used to help diagnose and stage thyroid cancer, including ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans.
Ultrasound for Thyroid Imaging
Ultrasound is often the first imaging test used to evaluate a thyroid nodule. It is a noninvasive, painless test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the thyroid gland. Ultrasound can help to identify the size, shape, and composition of a thyroid nodule, as well as any surrounding lymph nodes. It can also help to determine whether a nodule is solid or fluid-filled, which can be an important factor in determining the likelihood of cancer.
If a nodule is suspicious for cancer, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) may be recommended. This involves using a thin needle to extract a sample of cells from the nodule, which can then be examined under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present. If cancer cells are found, additional imaging tests may be ordered to help determine the extent of the cancer and guide treatment.
CT and MRI for Thyroid Imaging
CT and MRI scans are sometimes used to evaluate the extent of thyroid cancer and determine if it has spread to other parts of the body. These tests use advanced imaging techniques to create detailed images of the inside of the body, which can help to identify any tumors or abnormal growths. PET scans can also be used to help detect thyroid cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
If you have a thyroid nodule or are concerned about thyroid cancer, talk to your doctor about which imaging tests may be appropriate for your individual situation. At Lane Imaging Center, we offer a wide range of imaging services, including ultrasound, CT, MRI, and PET scans, to help diagnose and manage thyroid cancer and other conditions.
