Thyroid Biopsy: Everything You Need To Know

Thyroid biopsy is a very common procedure nowadays. It allows the extraction of samples from the gland and their analysis in the laboratory. This can diagnose or rule out many diseases, such as cancer.

There are different methods of performing the biopsy. The most commonly used is fine needle aspiration, although there are others that are helpful when a clear diagnosis cannot be made.

Due to the thyroid biopsy, a specific treatment can be established depending on the pathology. Therefore, in this article we will explain everything you need to know about this test, how it is performed and what it is used for.

What is a thyroid biopsy?

Thyroid biopsy is a procedure used to diagnose various pathologies that affect this gland. The thyroid is an organ located in the front of the neck, in front of the trachea. It is responsible for the production of hormones that play a key role in controlling metabolism.

A thyroid biopsy involves removing a tissue sample from the thyroid gland. This sample is examined in the laboratory under a microscope. As I pointed out in the introduction, there are different ways to do this. The most common is fine needle aspiration biopsy. Usually, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis only with local anesthesia.

Other techniques require general anesthesia and are somewhat more complex. The idea is to get some tissue from the nodules that have appeared. In general, samples are taken from nodules that can be felt through the skin.

As mentioned in an article on RadiologyInfo, the nodules from which the sample is obtained are often larger than 1 centimeter. To perform this test more accurately, an ultrasound is performed simultaneously. Thus, it is easier for the doctor to locate the exact position of the nodules, especially if they are small.

Types of thyroid biopsy

Puncture biopsy is performed with needles of different sizes. In this group, we find fine needle aspiration biopsy. It is the most used. As explained by the specialists from the Mayo Clinic, a thin, empty needle is used to extract the cells.

Usually, an ultrasound is performed simultaneously to direct the needle to the specific point. This technique is performed in the hospital or in the doctor’s office. It lasts about 10 minutes and does not require general anesthesia, as it is a minimally invasive test. To do this, the patient must lie on his back with his neck straight. It is essential to stay still and calm during the process, as any movement can interfere with the direction of the needle.

Suction biopsy can also be done with a thick needle. The thick needle allows the extraction of samples the size of a grain of rice. It is important that the samples are obtained from different nodules in the gland.

After finishing the process, the area is cleaned. Bandages are placed on the points where the needle was inserted. It is normal to experience a slight discomfort in the area.

2. Open biopsy

Thyroid biopsy can also be done by surgery. In this case, it is called an open biopsy. This consists of making a small cut in the neck and removing the lump or taking a smaller sample to send to the laboratory.

In some cases, much of the gland is removed. This technique is indicated when needle biopsy has not provided an accurate diagnosis.

General anesthesia is required for this surgery, which must be performed in the operating room. It is less used because it presents more risks. For example, it increases the chances of infection, bleeding and healing problems.

Why is thyroid biopsy performed?

Thyroid biopsy is performed to determine the cause of gland nodules. Most are detected by a physical examination. You may have been seen on ultrasound or other imaging.

Thanks to this test, the cells that make up the node can be observed. The doctor checks for abnormalities and whether or not it is cancer. Thyroid biopsy is also used to study certain cases of goiter. Goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid.

Preparing for this procedure

Before performing a thyroid biopsy, it is essential that the doctor knows the patient’s history. He needs to know if he is taking medication or if he has another condition. An earlier examination is also needed to locate the nodules.

Usually, before the biopsy, some complementary tests are performed. For example, a blood test and an ultrasound.

No specific preparation is required for needle biopsy. Because it is an outpatient test without general anesthesia, fasting is not necessary.

If the thyroid biopsy is open, general anesthesia will be used. Because it is a more complex intervention, the patient will be given specific instructions. In this case, he must not consume food or liquids before the procedure. In addition, rest is required in the hours after the biopsy.

Possible results after thyroid biopsy

Thyroid biopsy provides a lot of information about the condition of the gland. After the sample is analyzed in the laboratory, an extensive report is generated that describes different parameters.

First, the color, consistency and overall appearance are explained. Then, the cells that make up the node are described, both in number and morphology. Therefore, as the American Thyroid Association explains, the results of thyroid biopsy may be as follows:

Biopsy is a fundamental test for cancer

What we need to remember is that, currently, thyroid biopsy is the basic test to be able to diagnose gland tumors. In fact, it not only reveals the presence of malignancy, but also allows the identification of the type of tumor. In this way, it makes it possible to establish an appropriate treatment protocol depending on the pathology. In addition, it is an outpatient test with a low risk of complications.