Written and medically reviewed by: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD, General SurgeryLast updated:
Thyroid Disease — Thyroid Diagnosis
Exam, blood tests, ultrasound, and FNA
Evaluation starts with neck exam, thyroid function tests (TSH ± free T4/T3), high-resolution ultrasound, and fine-needle aspiration (FNA) for suspicious nodules. Preoperative voice assessment matters when symptoms or reoperation are present. CT, MR, or scintigraphy may be added.
Educational schematic. Some structures may be simplified or emphasized for clarity; not an exact anatomical depiction.
© Cengiz Dibekoğlu — illustrative; not for unauthorized use
Figure summary
This educational figure shows: Diagnosis · stepwise workup.
Key points
Blood tests
TSH first; low TSH may trigger scintigraphy; high TSH prompts free T4 and autoimmunity workup. Calcitonin/CEA if medullary cancer is suspected.
Ultrasound
Characterizes solid/cystic pattern, margins, calcifications, and nodes. Risk stratification (e.g., TI-RADS) sets biopsy thresholds.
- Key note inside
Fine-needle aspiration
Ultrasound-guided FNA with Bethesda classification guides next steps. Indeterminate results are not automatic cancer.
Voice assessment
Laryngoscopy before surgery when hoarseness, prior neck surgery, or large/invasive disease is present.
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Appointment / info
This page is for education. It is not medical advice and does not replace a visit with your physician.
Medical editor: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD · Last medically reviewed: August 2026 · English patient-education chapter.