If I am under age 35, and discovered that I have a 1.0cm or smaller thyroid nodule and no previous history of neck radiation or family history of thyroid cancer, do I need to have periodic imaging to make sure it doesn't turn into cancer?

Question:

If I am under age 35, and discovered that I have a 1.0cm or smaller thyroid nodule and no previous history of neck radiation or family history of thyroid cancer, do I need to have periodic imaging to make sure it doesn’t turn into cancer?

Answer:

No

MedHead Confidence Score: 7

Amount Saved: $500 cost of thyroid ultrasound post

Med-O-Meter

MedHead Message:

A lot of people have thyroid nodules. A LOT! Over 50% of the adult population will have a thyroid nodule identifiable by ultrasound. Only the tiniest fraction develop into thyroid cancer. Do yourself a favor and save the $500 ultrasound cost, along with the follow up doctor visit and treat yourself to a day at a really nice spa.

References:

1. http://www.choosingwisely.org/clinician-lists/acr-ultrasound-for-incidental-thyroid-nodules/ 2. https://www.healthline.com/health/thyroid-ultrasound