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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I have a thyroid lump (nodule) or thyroid cancer diagnosis and want to be treated by the University of Michigan Endocrine Oncology Program. What do I need to do?

There are many things to think about when starting treatment. We encourage you to call our Patient Care Specialists, who can answer all of your questions and help get the process started. Call 800-865-1125.

Q. If I have a thyroid lump, does that mean I have thyroid cancer?

Having a thyroid lump does not mean you have thyroid cancer. In fact, 95% of thyroid lumps are benign (non-cancerous). Most of the time, these lumps can be followed on a routine basis, without the need for surgery.

Q. I have a thyroid nodule. What kind of tests can I expect to have?

Our endocrinology team will check the lump to see if it is cancerous. Your doctor will take a detailed medical history and do a careful physical exam. They may also do an ultrasound exam in the office or send you to a radiologist to do the ultrasound. Lab work is also done and, if needed, a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken.

Q. What if I have thyroid cancer?

The treatment for thyroid cancer is to remove the thyroid gland, which is called a thyroidectomy. In many cases the whole thyroid needs to be removed (total thyroidectomy), and the lymph nodes surrounding the thyroid may be removed at the same time. In some cases only part of the thyroid gland needs to be removed. We use the most advanced surgical techniques to help keep the quality of your voice and decrease bleeding and operation time. After surgery, you may get radioactive iodine treatment to take care of any small amounts of remaining thyroid cancer.

Q. Are there other treatments for thyroid cancer?

Your surgeon and/or endocrinologist will talk about treatment choices for your condition. Each treatment plan is tailored. The risks, benefits and alternatives to each option will be explained. Please feel free to ask any questions you might have. It is important to us that you understand your disease and treatment choices. Most patients are treated by surgery with or without radioactive iodine, but other therapies are sometimes needed.

Q. Why should I choose U-M to provide treatment?

The University of Michigan's Multidisciplinary Endocrine Oncology doctors are leaders in their field. They are dedicated to giving care to patients with endocrine problems only. Care of patients with thyroid cancer is a main focus of the Endocrine Oncology Program. We are often referred patients with complex problems needing care not available elsewhere. New techniques and therapies to care for patients with thyroid problems are being tested and carried out to give the most up-to-date care possible.

Q. I'd like to make an appointment, but there is so much to think over - schedules, insurance, and so on. Who can help me?

Our Patient Care Center is here to help you with everything from scheduling and coordinating appointments to planning travel and hotel rooms. We are here to make your care as seamless as possible, and to give you a single point of contact for any questions or concerns. We can also help you with any questions you might have about insurance coverage and hospital billing. You can reach our Patient Care Center at 800-865-1125.

Continue to learn about thyroid cancer

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Learn more about thyroid and other endocrine diseases

Visit the Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes web pages on UofMHealth.org.

Learn about thyroid surgery

Visit the Endocrine Surgery page on UofMHealth.org.