- Most thyroid cysts are fluid-filled sacs that are typically benign and often go unnoticed unless they grow large enough to cause neck pain or difficulty swallowing.
- Doctors usually diagnose these cysts through physical exams and ultrasounds, though a fine needle biopsy may be required if the cyst contains solid components.
- While many cysts resolve on their own and only require monitoring, larger or symptomatic ones can be treated through fluid drainage or surgical removal.
A thyroid cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms within the thyroid gland, with colloid cysts being the most frequently diagnosed type. While these cysts are often asymptomatic, they can cause noticeable discomfort if they grow large enough to press against nearby structures.
If a cyst increases in size, you may experience persistent neck pain, hoarseness, or a sensation of something being stuck in your throat. These physical symptoms often lead to further medical evaluation to determine the specific nature and size of the growth.
Most thyroid cysts are benign and occur more frequently in women than in men. Causes can include localized inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, or abnormal tissue growth, though some cases may require monitoring for potential malignancy.
Main symptoms
The primary symptoms associated with a thyroid cyst include:
-
Difficulty swallowing
-
Hoarseness or voice changes
-
Neck pain and general discomfort
-
Difficulty breathing, though this is considered rare
In many instances, a thyroid cyst will not cause any symptoms at all. However, as the fluid accumulates and the sac expands over time, the physical presence of the cyst becomes more apparent.
When symptoms occur, the cyst is often palpable, meaning you or your doctor can feel a lump through the skin. Since the thyroid is located at the base of the neck, these changes are usually easy to detect during a physical exam.
If you notice a lump or experience these symptoms, it is important to undergo medical testing to determine if the cyst requires specific treatment.
Is a thyroid cyst dangerous?
In the vast majority of cases, a thyroid cyst is benign and poses no serious health risk. These fluid-filled sacs are generally non-cancerous and may even resolve on their own.
However, a cyst is occasionally found to have solid components inside, which may increase the suspicion of malignancy. A solid or complex cyst requires a more detailed evaluation to rule out thyroid cancer.
If you develop symptoms or feel a lump, consulting an endocrinologist is the best course of action. They can perform the necessary tests to identify the type of cyst and recommend the best management plan.
Confirming a diagnosis
An endocrinologist typically diagnoses a thyroid cyst by reviewing your medical history and performing a physical examination of the neck. They may also order blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels and ensure the gland is functioning correctly.
Also recommended: Thyroid Tests: 9 Tests That Assess Thyroid Functioning tuasaude.com/en/thyroid-testsTo confirm the diagnosis, your doctor will likely request a thyroid ultrasound to visualize the cyst's structure. If the ultrasound shows irregular borders or solid tissue within the cyst, further investigation is usually required.
A common follow-up procedure is a Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) biopsy. During this procedure, a thin needle is used to drain the fluid and collect cell samples for laboratory analysis to ensure no cancer cells are present.
Possible causes
While the exact cause of a thyroid cyst is not always clear, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing one, including:
-
A family history of thyroid cysts or nodules
-
Chronic inflammation, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis
-
Overgrowth of normal thyroid tissue
-
Iodine deficiency
-
Previous exposure to radiation in the neck area
Additionally, individuals who have undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplants may face a higher risk of developing malignant thyroid growths.
Treatment options
Treatment for a thyroid cyst is guided by an endocrinologist and often involves simple watchful waiting. Many cysts are eventually reabsorbed by the body, so regular monitoring through ultrasounds is often sufficient.
If a cyst is large enough to cause pain or difficulty swallowing, your doctor may recommend draining the fluid through aspiration. In cases where the cyst recurs or is exceptionally large, surgical removal may be necessary.
If laboratory results indicate the presence of malignant cells, more intensive treatments are required. This may include radioactive iodine therapy to target and destroy any remaining abnormal thyroid tissue.