Thyroid Masses
Thyroid masses in children are less common than in adults, but they are often taken more seriously because the likelihood of cancer is higher in pediatric thyroid nodules. A thyroid mass may present as a lump or swelling in the front of the neck. Thyroid masses are sometimes discovered incidentally during imaging for another reason. Children may experience additional symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, hoarse voice or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. However, many thyroid nodules in children are painless and may not cause any symptoms at all.
The evaluation of a thyroid mass usually begins with a physical exam and thyroid function tests to assess hormone levels. An ultrasound of the neck is the most useful imaging tool to determine the size, shape and features of the nodule. Based on the ultrasound findings, many children with thyroid masses are sent for a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy. This is a procedure performed by interventional radiology which involves taking a small sample of the nodule to look for abnormal or cancerous cells. This helps our doctors determine whether the mass is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Thyroid tumors in children can be benign, such as adenomas, or cancerous, most commonly papillary thyroid carcinoma. Even when thyroid cancer is present, children respond well to treatment and have excellent outcomes. The main treatment for most thyroid tumors is surgical removal, which may involve removing part or all of the thyroid gland, depending on the diagnosis. In some cancer cases, radioactive iodine therapy may be used after surgery to eliminate any remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells.
Our surgeons at ENT for Kids have the largest experience in North Florida for the surgical management of thyroid masses in children. With proper diagnosis and a coordinated care plan, most children with thyroid conditions go on to live healthy, normal lives.
If you’re concerned your child may have a thyroid mass, please reach out to us to arrange a consultation.