Nodules should be removed if a biopsy or genetic testing indicates they are cancerous or likely to become cancerous. Doctors typically recommend surgery in these cases.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Cancerous Nodules: If a fine-needle aspiration biopsy reveals cancerous cells within the nodule, surgical removal is almost always recommended. This is to prevent the cancer from spreading.
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Suspicious Nodules (Indeterminate Biopsy): Sometimes, biopsy results are unclear. Genetic testing can then be performed on the biopsy sample. If the genetic test shows a high probability of cancer, surgery is usually advised.
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Compressive Symptoms: Even if a nodule is benign (non-cancerous), it might need removal if it's large enough to cause problems. These problems can include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Hoarseness
- Pain or pressure in the neck
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Cosmetic Concerns: Less commonly, a large benign nodule may be removed if it causes cosmetic disfigurement that significantly bothers the patient.
In summary, the decision to remove a nodule is based on a careful assessment of the risk of cancer and the impact of the nodule on the patient's health and well-being. A doctor will consider factors like biopsy results, genetic test results (if applicable), the nodule's size and growth rate, and any symptoms the patient is experiencing.
