A thyroid mass may also be referred to as a nodule, growth, or lump.
It may be harder in texture, or it may have a distinct appearance on an imaging examination.
It cannot remove or eliminate cancer from the thyroid gland.
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In some cases, a needle core biopsy is used instead of FNA.
The sample is obtained using a thicker needle than that used for FNA.
Risks and Contraindications
FNA is considered a safe, minimally invasive procedure without serious risks.
The healthcare system where you are seen likely has its own process in place for thyroid FNA.
You may be asked to change into a gown for your procedure.
Pre-authorization is often required for non-emergency procedures like FNA.
If you are paying for the test out-of-pocket, your cost can range between $400 and $1600.
Ultrasound-guided FNA and the use of anesthetic medication are more likely to put the cost at the higher end.
During the Test
A physician will perform your thyroid FNA.
It may be done by anendocrinologist, a surgeon, or a radiologist.
Soon after, you will be called in to prepare for your procedure.
A nurse or technician will check your vital signs and may ask you to change into a gown.
The results may be available during your procedure, immediately afterward, or a couple of weeks later.
It is possible for the cells to be completely normal, suggesting a benign (noncancerous) lesion.
The next steps may include a more extensive biopsy or further diagnostic imaging tests.
A Word From Verywell
A biopsy is often considered the most definitive way to analyze thyroid tissue.
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