Healthopedia.com - Your Health
Encyclopedia

Set Homepage Email Page Favorites      

 
  Home
  Health Centers
  Medical Encyclopedia
  Drugs & Medications
  Diseases & Conditions 
  Medical Symptoms
  Medical Tests & Exams
  Surgery & Procedures 
  Injuries & Wounds
  Diet & Nutrition
  Special Topics
  Pictures & Images      


Google
 
Web Healthopedia.com

You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Tests and Exams > Thyroid Nodule Fine Needle Biopsy

Thyroid Nodule Fine Needle Biopsy

Alternate Names : Biopsy-Skinny Needle, Skinny-Needle Biopsy

Overview & Description | Preparation & Expectations | Results and Values | Attribution


In a thyroid nodule fine-needle biopsy, a small sample of tissue is taken from the thyroid gland, an endocrine gland in the neck. This sample is then analyzed in the laboratory.

Who is a candidate for the test?

The thyroid nodule fine-needle biopsy is usually done to help diagnose thyroid cancer or other thyroid disorders.

How is the test performed?

This test can be done in a doctor's office or in the hospital. The person lies on his or her back. The area of skin over the thyroid gland, above the windpipe on the neck, is cleaned with an antiseptic. A very thin, hollow needle is inserted through the skin and into the thyroid gland. After a small amount of fluid is aspirated, or sucked into the needle, the needle is withdrawn. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for testing.


   

Next section

   

Thyroid Nodule Fine Needle Biopsy: Preparation & Expectations

Author: David T. Moran, MD
Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed: 09/20/01









Content provided by The Patient Marketing Group, Inc.

Copyright © 2006 Healthopedia.com All Rights reserved.
About Us | Help/FAQ | Privacy Policy | Editorial Policy | Advertising Policy | Accessibility | Terms of Use
Contact Us | Link to Us

HONcode accreditation seal.

We comply with the HONcode standard for health trust worthy information: verify here.


The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call your local emergency number for all medical emergencies. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.
Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006