Can I request biopsy for neck swelling?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had a swelling developed on my neck overnight 10 days ago. I went to a doctor who did an ultrasound and took thyroid function blood tests. He said it as a 1.1 x 1.1 inch cyst with 0.3 x 0.3 inch tumor or nodule with some calcification. He took some of the cyst liquid and sent away for tests, but it will take 10 days to receive the result. He wants to wait for the results before deciding the next step. I do not have any other symptoms. All the similar ultrasound pictures online seem to be malignant. Should I wait for the result? Or can request a biopsy of the nodule? Currently I am on vacation. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

A cyst being malignant is very unlikely. But, a nodule definitely needs evaluation though you do not have any symptoms. I recommend you to first get I-131 scintigraphy scan followed by FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology). This is irrespective of cyst fluid report.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I went through the scan picture (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

The cyst can be very clearly made out and seems harmless. But, I am not able to clearly appreciate the nodule in that picture. It requires continuous dynamic movement of scan pictures. Yes, even I am of the opinion that most likely there is nothing serious in your scan report. There is no need to hurry and get a FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology) or biopsy of the nodule. You can still wait for the cyst fluid results to come. But, FNAC or biopsy of the nodule has to be done irrespective of the cyst fluid report.