Our Services for Thyroid Patients
The Multidisciplinary Thyroid Center offers:
Diagnostic and Screening Services
On-site diagnostic testing enables endocrinologists and radiologists to detect suspicious thyroid nodules and cancers at their earliest stages, when they're most treatable.
The Multidisciplinary Thyroid Center’s comprehensive, same-day services include:
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Thyroid Nodules
FNA is the best diagnostic procedure for determining which thyroid nodules are benign, and which have cancer.
Diagnostic Ultrasound of the Thyroid
Ultrasound is a noninvasive and painless procedure that can help doctors diagnose and treat thyroid conditions and thyroid cancer.
Advanced Molecular Diagnostic Evaluation of Thyroid Nodules and Tissues
For patients with inconclusive FNA biopsy results, advanced molecular tests — pioneered at UPMC — can identify gene mutations in about 75 percent of cancers.
- Genetic changes are found by examining DNA extracted from your FNA biopsy samples.
- These unique genetic markers can be used to diagnose cancer, sometimes even in situations where thyroid cells appear benign under a microscope.
- The presence of a genetic mutation frequently helps the surgeon plan any needed operations.
Additional Information about Molecular Diagnostic Testing:
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Advanced Surgical Options for Thyroid Cancer
The Multidisciplinary Thyroid Center's world-class surgeons work closely with referring primary care physicians and highly specialized endocrinologists, pathologists, and nuclear medicine physicians to provide a comprehensive team approach that meets each patient’s needs.
Our surgeons have a proven track record in performing a variety of advanced surgical techniques, including:
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Supportive Care Options
Connecting with others who have shared your same experiences can sometimes help ease the burden of a cancer diagnosis.
The Multidisciplinary Thyroid Center can assist you in contacting national cancer support organizations, including the Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association.
Interpreters are also available to help international patients and those with language barriers better understand the treatment process.
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