Thyroid Nodule Evaluation
Houston, TX
Finding out you have a thyroid nodule can be unsettling — but most nodules are benign. Our expert endocrinologists in Houston provide thorough, evidence-based evaluation to determine the nature of your nodule and create the right monitoring or treatment plan.
Quick Facts
When Should a Thyroid Nodule Be Evaluated?
Thyroid nodules are extremely common — present in up to 65% of adults when examined by ultrasound. The vast majority are benign, but a small percentage may require further workup. Knowing which nodules need attention is exactly where endocrinologists excel.
You should seek evaluation if you have been told a nodule was found incidentally on imaging, if you can feel a lump in your neck, if you have changes in your voice or swallowing, or if you have a family history of thyroid cancer.
Incidental Finding
Nodule found on CT, MRI, or ultrasound done for another reason
Neck Lump
Palpable lump or fullness felt in the front of the neck
Voice Changes
Hoarseness or unexplained change in voice quality
Swallowing Issues
Difficulty or discomfort swallowing (dysphagia)
Family History
Family history of thyroid cancer or MEN syndrome
Radiation Exposure
Prior radiation to the head or neck area
How We Evaluate Thyroid Nodules
Complete History & Thyroid Function Testing
We start with a thorough history, physical exam, and blood work including TSH, free T4, and thyroid antibodies. Your thyroid function guides how urgently a nodule needs further workup.
Thyroid Ultrasound
Ultrasound is the gold standard for characterizing thyroid nodules. We order and interpret ultrasound imaging using ACR TI-RADS criteria to stratify nodule risk and determine whether biopsy is needed.
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy — When Indicated
If the nodule meets size and risk criteria for biopsy, we coordinate ultrasound-guided FNA biopsy. We review the pathology results with you and explain what the findings mean in plain language.
Ongoing Surveillance or Referral
Benign nodules are monitored with periodic ultrasound. If the biopsy suggests cancer or indeterminate findings, we coordinate with thyroid surgeons and provide comprehensive pre- and post-surgical endocrine management.
Physicians Who Evaluate Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid Education Resources
Thyroid Nodule FAQ
I was told my nodule is "probably benign" — do I still need to see a specialist?
Yes. Even nodules that appear benign on initial imaging benefit from expert endocrine evaluation to confirm appropriate follow-up intervals, check thyroid function, and rule out rare indeterminate features that require biopsy.
Does a thyroid nodule always need a biopsy?
No. The majority of nodules do not require biopsy. Biopsy is recommended based on size and ultrasound characteristics using standardized guidelines (TI-RADS). Small, low-risk nodules are monitored with surveillance ultrasound.
Can a thyroid nodule affect my thyroid hormone levels?
Occasionally. Some nodules — called "hot" or autonomous nodules — produce excess thyroid hormone and cause hyperthyroidism. TSH testing helps identify these cases, which require different management than non-functioning nodules.
How often do thyroid nodules need to be checked?
Benign nodules are typically re-evaluated by ultrasound at 1–2 years, then every 3–5 years if stable. Your endocrinologist will personalize this schedule based on your specific nodule characteristics and risk factors.