Thyroid Biopsy

Biopsy, Thyroid

Risks

There is a small chance of problems from a thyroid biopsy, such as infection and bleeding.

Ongoing bleeding can be a problem for people with bleeding disorders. Aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), and other blood-thinning medicines can make bleeding more likely. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on when to call him or her with problems.

After the test

Call your doctor immediately if you have:

• A lot of bleeding through the bandage.
• A hard time swallowing.
• Signs of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the biopsy site.
  • Red streaks spreading from the biopsy site.
  • Drainage of pus from the biopsy site.
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
  • Fever.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: September 15, 2006
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology & Metabolism
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