Patient Education - Endocrine Encyclopedia
Endocrine Surgery Encyclopedia
 Definition:
The thyroid is a gland located in the neck.
It is a part of the endocrine (hormone) system,
and plays a major role in regulating the body's metabolism.
If a sample of cells is needed
from the thyroid gland a fine needle biopsy can be performed. During this procedure, a skinny
needle is inserted into the thyroid gland, and a sample of thyroid cells and fluid is drawn
into the needle.
The needle is then withdrawn and the cells are sent for examination.
This
test is usually performed to diagnose thyroid disease or thyroid cancer.
Review Date: 11/10/2004 12:00:00 AM
Reviewed By: Brendan T. Campbell, MD, MPH, Department of Surgery, Arkansas Children's Hospital,
Little Rock, AR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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