Thyroid nodule - Which doctor should I consult?

Dear Ask The Doctor: I FOUND OUT I HAVE A LARGE NODUELL ON MY THYROID AND IT HAS BEEN THERE FOR 5 YRS UNTREATED HOW SERIOUS IS THIS AND WHAT6 ARE THEY WHAT DOCTOR TO GO TO

Dear Darci: The thyroid is a gland located in the neck and is responsible for secreting thyroid hormone. The regulation of amount of thyroid that is secreted is based on amount of thyroid levels in the blood as well as levels of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and TRH (thyrotropin releasing hormone) which regulate how much thyroid hormone is released. Not all thyroid nodules are dangerous. A great majority of these nodules are not serious and do not usually cause any symptoms. Thyroid cancer accounts for a small percentage of thyroid nodules. Frequently included in the workup is an ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland. If an abnormal cyst or nodule is detected, this may need to be sampled with a needle -- a procedure called "Fine Needle Aspiration" or FNA. That sample is then sent to a pathologist who will look at it under a microscope and determine if it is normal or abnormal thyroid tissue. Based on all of these tests and results, the proper diagnosis and treatment can be proposed by your physician. I recommend consulting an endocrinologist or an Endocrine surgeon for evaluation of your thyroid.