Thyroid Nodules & Thyroid Cancer Care:
Sequoia Medical 360

Expert Evaluation & Management in Bronxville & Westchester, NY

Thyroid nodules are extremely common — small lumps within the thyroid gland discovered during routine exams, imaging studies, or self-exam. Most nodules are benign, but a small percentage can be malignant, requiring careful evaluation and management. Thyroid cancer, while relatively uncommon, is one of the fastest-growing cancer diagnoses worldwide. The good news: with early detection and modern treatment, outcomes are often excellent.
At Sequoia Medical 360, we combine advanced imaging, precision biopsy techniques, and comprehensive endocrine expertise to distinguish harmless nodules from those requiring intervention. Guided by Dr. Tony Mathews’ dual fellowship training in Preventive Cardiology and Endocrinology, we provide seamless care that spans from early detection to long-term monitoring.

Understanding Thyroid Nodules

Prevalence: Up to 60% of adults develop thyroid nodules during their lifetime. Most cause no symptoms and are discovered incidentally.
Possible Symptoms: Larger nodules may cause visible swelling, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or a sensation of pressure in the neck.
Evaluation:
  • High-resolution ultrasound – the cornerstone for assessing nodule size, texture, and vascularity.
  • Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy – minimally invasive sampling of suspicious nodules.
  • Molecular testing – when biopsy results are indeterminate, advanced genetic profiling helps clarify cancer risk.
Management:
  • Benign nodules → monitored with periodic ultrasound.
  • Growing or symptomatic nodules → may require surgery or ablation.
  • Suspicious nodules → referred for biopsy and possible surgical removal.

Thyroid Cancer Overview

Thyroid cancer often develops silently, with many cases detected only during imaging or evaluation of a thyroid nodule. Though diagnosis may feel alarming, most types — particularly papillary and follicular cancers — are highly treatable.

Causes: Pituitary tumors, prior surgery or radiation, genetic conditions, or infiltrative diseases
Diagnosis: Low thyroid hormone levels (free T4, sometimes free T3) with inappropriately normal or low TSH. Evaluation often includes pituitary hormone panels and MRI imaging.
Management: Thyroid hormone replacement, while also addressing any pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction. Careful coordination is essential, especially when adrenal insufficiency is also present.
Types of Thyroid Cancer
Papillary thyroid cancer – the most common, slow-growing, excellent prognosis.
Follicular thyroid cancer – less common but also highly treatable when caught early.
Medullary thyroid cancer – rarer, sometimes linked to genetic syndromes (MEN2). Requires specialized testing.
Anaplastic thyroid cancer – rare and aggressive, requiring immediate multidisciplinary care.

Symptoms & Red Flags

A persistent lump or swelling in the neck
Hoarseness or voice changes
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
Rapid nodule growth or firm, irregular nodules

While most nodules remain benign, these warning signs should prompt immediate evaluation.

Our Diagnostic Approach at Sequoia Medical 360

We use a stepwise, evidence-based process to ensure accurate diagnosis:

Comprehensive thyroid hormone testing (TSH, free T4, T3)
Antibody testing to assess autoimmune overlap (Hashimoto’s, Graves’)
Ultrasound risk stratification (TI-RADS scoring)
Fine needle aspiration biopsy with expert pathology review
Molecular marker testing when biopsy results are inconclusive
Cross-sectional imaging (CT/MRI) for cancer staging, when necessary

Treatment & Long-Term Management

Every patient’s treatment plan is individualized to minimize risk while optimizing outcomes. Options include:

Observation: For benign nodules or microcarcinomas, surveillance may be the safest choice.
Surgical referral: Thyroidectomy or lobectomy when cancer is confirmed or highly suspected.
Radioactive iodine therapy: Used in certain cases after surgery to eliminate residual thyroid tissue or microscopic disease.
Thyroid hormone therapy: Tailored replacement dosing post-surgery, balancing metabolic needs while suppressing recurrence risk.
Cancer survivorship care: Lifelong monitoring of hormone levels, thyroglobulin (cancer marker), and ultrasound follow-up.

The Sequoia Medical 360 Advantage for Thyroid Nodules & Cancer

Comprehensive evaluation: From first discovery of a lump to advanced diagnostics.
Precision diagnostics: Ultrasound, FNA, molecular testing, and advanced imaging.
Integrated endocrine expertise: Managing not only nodules and cancer but the broader metabolic and hormonal context.
Direct Physician Counsel: Ample, scheduled exam time and streamlined communication to review results with the depth your physiology requires.
Collaborative partnerships: Seamless coordination with surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists when advanced intervention is required.

Protect Your Thyroid Health

Whether you’ve just discovered a thyroid nodule or are navigating a cancer diagnosis, expert guidance makes all the difference. At Sequoia Medical 360, we provide the clarity, precision, and ongoing support you need to move forward with confidence.

SQMed360.com
Located in Bronxville, serving Westchester & all of New York State.
(914) 292-0300
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