what are risks of thyroid needle biopsy?

Question

can this procedure cause a cancer to become (more) malignant or start growing, etc ?

Answer 1

Risk Factors for Complications During the Procedure of thyroid needle biopsy -

A biopsy is usually done to test if a nodule contains benign or malignant cells. It may also be ordered if the thyroid is enlarged especially in individuals over 50 years old, even if there is no nodule present. Although usually not cancerous, all nodules should be checked by a physician to determine their condition.

A biopsy is the only test that can confirm whether cancer is present. There are two types of biopsies:

* Fine-needle aspiration (FNA), the most common type
* Coarse-needle biopsy (CNB)

If you have a bleeding disorder, you should discuss options with your doctor.

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure –

There is no special preparation for either type of biopsy. However, you should tell your doctor:

* If you have any allergies.
* What medications you are taking; you may be advised to avoid drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, and Coumadin, that could increase your chances of bleeding or bruising.
* If you could be pregnant.

For coarse-needle biopsy, your doctor may order some tests to determine how well your blood clots. -

Answer 2

I personally feel that it is best to have a thyroid needle biopsy as it can detect if there is something wrong early.My husband had all this done and he had no problems with the needle biopsy.Fortunately it gave him a quick diagnosis of thyroid cancer which he had all the treatment for and has been in remission for several years now.Please have it done if in doubt.