Question about Father's High TSH and Large Nodule

I appreciate all your concerns for your father. It might be helpful to know that a biopsy is not always definitive. I suspect the Dr believes it is related to the thyroiditis more then an active or aggressive cancer. He is prescribed medication that would slow any thyroid cancer if it was but may also resolve another issue causing the problems. The high levels could even reflect a thyroid trying to work overtime. If the levels drop after two months and the growth is slowed and or even shrinks that would be a really positive outcome, especially at his age. Major surgery would be difficult for him.
Since he only is waiting 8 weeks most thyroid cancers wouldn't advance much in that time beyond the current situation. My surgeons opted not to do a biopsy and simply removed the growth after a brief 6 wk period. It did turn out to be cancerous and I had a followup surgery 6 wks later to remove the remainder of my thyroid.
You are being a great advocate for your father. You might call and ask to speak to his doctor , or email them, and ask him those questions you have. He'll need your fathers permission to discuss with you, but hearing his reasoning may help you with your concerns.

Hello,
Thank you so much for your helpful reply!
Spoke to the surgeon who thinks it's unlikely the module is cancerous. For the last 6 months, his voice has become softer at times and normal at other times. So, I am not sure if that is related to the thyroid issue. Did you experience that prior to the surgery?

Actually I did have voice fluctuations afterwards more then before. I have seen in family and experience, that as individuals age, modulations in speech begin to change. It's simply the ability at times to control speech levels. So I am wondering if perhaps it is more age related , then the thyroid growth.
I'm glad you were able to speak with the doctor and hopefully that reassured you some. I understand it's hard to watch our parent age and have issues arise that we can't change. That concern is a normal reaction. You are a great advocate for your father. I am hoping you can spend some joy filled times with him . Praying the medication helps him and in 8 weeks you'll get better news!

Thank you so much for your kind reply and prayers! I hope you don't mind if I ask you questions in the future.

I personally think that he should do the biopsy! I had a partial thyroidectomy two days ago, and my cancerous nodule stayed right in the thyroid ..encased in cystic fluid, and it is all gone!
It’s a somewhat painful recovery, but I’m glad the cancerous nodule is out of me and I have peace of mind!

However I can support you. Happy to help .

Glad you are doing well. Thank you for the response.

Hello lbrockme,
Hope you are doing well. Just wanted to update you on father. He followed up with his Oncologist on Monday, 04/15 (a bit earlier than usual). After physical examination, I spoke with the dr, who said father is doing fine. He said no ultrasound or biopsy is needed at this point. If any symptoms like change in voice, difficulty swallowing and shortness of breath arise, father needs to see him right away. I suppose the surgeon is waiting and watching given that my father is 87. Do you think waiting until July for additional testing or biopsy or earlier if symptoms show up is a risky option?

Thank you

I know it probably feels risky , but if the Dr doesn't seem to concerned that should be reassuring. You could always get a second opinion, but they may take some time as well. His age would have to be factored onto any treatment. If things are stable then that should be reassuring. It seems he is pleased he is monitored well , and knows anything different is going to be quickly reported as the doctor requested. I think it is great that the doctor was quick to identify things to look for and report.
Hoping you can enjoy a little peice of mind for a while.

Got it. I am very grateful for your response! Will probably ask you more questions in the future. Hope you don't mind.

Regards