FAQs - Dr. Nadelman

Q: Should I get a second opinion about my thyroid ultrasound?

If you have concerns about your diagnosis or treatment recommendations, seeking a second opinion is reasonable. An experienced physician who reviews the actual ultrasound images may provide additional insight beyond the written report.

Q: Can two doctors assign different TIRADS scores to the same thyroid nodule?

Yes. Ultrasound interpretation can vary among readers, so the same nodule may receive different scores depending on how its features are assessed.

Q: Does a TIRADS 3 nodule mean it is definitely benign?

No. TIRADS 3 indicates a mildly suspicious nodule with a relatively low risk of malignancy, but it does not guarantee that the nodule is benign. Clinical judgment and individual evaluation remain important.

Q: Is molecular testing always necessary after an indeterminate thyroid biopsy?

No. Molecular testing is typically considered when additional information could help guide treatment decisions. Whether it is appropriate depends on the biopsy findings, ultrasound appearance, and overall clinical picture.

Q: What does AUS or FLUS mean on a thyroid biopsy report?

AUS and FLUS refer to Bethesda Category III findings. These results indicate that some cellular abnormalities are present, but there is not enough information to confidently classify the nodule as benign or malignant.

Q: Does needing a repeat thyroid biopsy mean my nodule is cancer?

No. A repeat thyroid biopsy is often recommended because the original sample was non-diagnostic, atypical, or indeterminate. It does not automatically mean cancer is present.

Q: Why are non-diagnostic rates important?

Higher non-diagnostic rates often lead to more repeat procedures, additional costs, delayed diagnoses, and increased patient anxiety. Lower non-diagnostic rates generally reflect more effective sampling and specimen evaluation.

Q: Will I need another biopsy after a non-diagnostic FNA?

Possibly. Depending on the ultrasound findings, TIRADS score, and clinical situation, a repeat biopsy may be recommended to obtain an adequate sample for evaluation.

Q: Does a non-diagnostic thyroid biopsy mean cancer?

No. A non-diagnostic thyroid biopsy simply means there were not enough appropriate cells in the sample to make a reliable diagnosis. It is not a cancer diagnosis.

Q: Can cancer be detected before symptoms appear?

Yes. Many cancers can be identified through routine screening tests before symptoms develop. Mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies, and other screening tools help detect abnormal changes early, when treatment is often most effective.

FNA Biopsy Resources

Helpful Links

FNA Biopsy Resources

Helpful Links