What does thyroid calcification mean

Thyroid calcification is a calcium salt deposit in thyroid tissue, usually detected by ultrasound or other imaging examinations. The causes include degenerative changes, inflammation, nodules, etc. of thyroid tissue, and some calcifications may be manifestations of malignant tumors. The methods for evaluating thyroid calcification include ultrasound and fine needle biopsy. The treatment method depends on the size, shape, distribution, etc. of calcifications, as well as the patient's symptoms and thyroid function. Thyroid calcifications are calcium deposits in thyroid tissue, usually detected by ultrasound or other imaging studies. The following are some details about thyroid calcifications: 1. Type of thyroid calcification: Microcalcifications: calcifications less than 1 mm in diameter. Coarse calcification: Calcification greater than 1 mm in diameter. 2. Cause of thyroid calcification: Degenerative changes in thyroid tissue: Calcium deposits may occur in thyroid tissue with age. Thyroid inflammation: Inflammatory diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis may cause thyroid calcification. Thyroid nodules: Some thyroid nodules may appear calcified. Other factors: For example, radiation exposure, thyroid cancer, etc. may also lead to thyroid calcification.3. evaluation of thyroid calcification: Ultrasound: is a common method to evaluate thyroid calcification, doctors will be based on the characteristics of calcification (e.g., size, shape, distribution, etc.) to determine its nature. Fine needle aspiration biopsy: For suspected calcifications, the doctor may recommend a fine needle aspiration biopsy to determine the nature of the calcification.4. Treatment of thyroid calcifications: Observation: For some small, asymptomatic calcifications, the doctor may recommend observation and regular ultrasound examination. Treatment: If the calcifications are large, cause obvious symptoms, or are suspected to be malignant, treatment may be required, such as surgical resection, radioactive iodine therapy, etc. 5. Precautions for thyroid calcifications: Regular review: Regardless of the treatment of calcifications, regular ultrasound examinations are required to monitor their changes. Thyroid function tests: If thyroid dysfunction is present, treatment is required. Consultation: For diagnosis and treatment of thyroid calcification, it is recommended to consult a professional endocrinologist or thyroid surgeon. In short, thyroid calcification is a common thyroid disease, but most calcifications are benign. For patients with thyroid calcification, they should seek medical attention in time for detailed evaluation and consultation in order to formulate an appropriate treatment plan.