Thyroid nodule fine needle aspirate

Alternative names:

biopsy - skinny-needle; skinny-needle biopsy

How the test is performed:

This test may be done in the health care provider's office or in the hospital. No anesthetic is used because the needle is so small. You will be lying on your back with a pillow under your shoulders and your neck extended. The biopsy site is cleansed. The tiny needle is then inserted into the thyroid, and a sample of thyroid cells and fluid is drawn into the needle. The needle is then withdrawn. Pressure will be applied to the biopsy site to stop any bleeding, and the site will be covered with a bandage.

How to prepare for the test:

Inform the doctor of any drug allergies you have, which medications you are taking, if you have bleeding problems, and if you are pregnant. You must sign a consent form.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

The test will feel like a quick injection. There will be a needle prick.

Why the test is performed:

This is a test for cancer.