A Superior Standard in Thyroid Gland Care
Have you recently noticed a lump in your neck that moves when you swallow or fatigue that doesn't improve with rest? Addressing a thyroid gland disorder requires more than a conventional consultation; it requieres an environment where diagnostic precision and surgical expertise come together.
Our thyroid unit, led by internationally renowned professionals, moves away from the standard care model. Here, your case is analysed through a multidisciplinary lens, integrating Europe’s most advanced techniques such as thyroid nodule radiofrequency in Barcelona, to offer you solutions that prioritise preserving your glandular function and the absence of scars.
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It is common to confuse the thyroid with the parathyroids due to their proximity, but they are different glands: the thyroid regulates metabolism, while the parathyroids control calcium.
What are thyroid nodules?
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located at the front of the neck, just below the thyroid cartilage or Adam's apple.
It produces the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which control various bodily functions. These include metabolism, mood, body temperature, heart rate, and digestion. Sometimes, lumps or bumps form within the thyroid gland. These are called thyroid nodules.
Types of nodules we analyse in consultation
Depending on their composition and behaviour, we can classify them as follows:
Only a small percentage (5-10%) tend to be malignant, but early detection through a precise thyroid biopsy is essential for an excellent prognosis.
What are the causes of thyroid nodule formation?
The appearance of a thyroid nodule is not the result of a single cause, but rather a mix of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. This abnormal cell growth can originate through various pathways:
→ Iodine Deficiency and Nutritional Factors
Iodine deficiency remains a primary trigger for goiter and nodularity, as the gland hypertrophies in an attempt to capture this essential mineral more efficiently.
→ Genetic Predisposition
There is a significant hereditary component. If you have a family history of nodules or thyroid carcinoma, the likelihood of developing these lesions increases.
→ Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
This autoimmune pathology, very common in women in their 40s, causes chronic inflammation of the glandular tissue. This inflammation can lead to the formation of pseudo-nodules or true nodules that require close monitoring by a thyroid specialist.
→ Follicular Adenomas and Cysts
In many cases, the nodule is simply an overgrowth of healthy tissue (adenoma) that remains encapsulated, or a fluid-filled cyst resulting from the degeneration of a previous adenoma.
Your health is our priority!
Our endocrinology department welcomes you for the diagnosis and treatment of all your endocrine disorders.
How are thyroid nodules diagnosed?
It is very common for a nodule to be discovered by surprise. Perhaps you have noticed a lump in your neck, or maybe your doctor detected it during a routine check-up.
Whatever your situation, the most important thing is not to let it go unaddressed. Although the vast majority of nodules are benign, there is a small probability of a malignant process. At Turó Park Clinics, we recommend any of the following tests to determine the presence and nature of a nodule in your thyroid gland.
A blood test is done to measure thyroid hormone levels. Normally, nodules do not greatly affect hormone levels. However, in some cases, abnormal levels may be related to an underlying thyroid disorder.
Sound waves are used to create images of the thyroid gland and any nodules in it. This imaging test helps determine the size, shape, and characteristics of the nodules, such as whether they are filled with solid material, fluid, or both.
If a nodule appears suspicious on ultrasound or has risk factors, the endocrinologist will recommend a fine needle aspiration biopsy. During this procedure, a thin needle is used to remove a small sample of cells from the thyroid nodule. The sample is then sent to a laboratory to determine whether the nodule is benign, cancerous, or indeterminate.
This test is performed to evaluate nodule activity. It involves ingesting a small amount of radioactive iodine and taking images to see how the nodules function, how much iodine the nodules absorb and how much the normal thyroid tissue absorbs.
Based on the results of these tests, your thyroid nodule specialist will decide on the appropriate course of action.
How are thyroid nodules treated or managed?
There is no single approach. We assess the size, nature and symptoms of the nodule to decide on the most appropriate intervention. The current options are split according to the need for intervention:
Active Observation: Surveillance with peace of mind
When the nodule is small, asymptomatic, and benign (confirmed by FNA), the protocol is active surveillance. Through periodic high-resolution ultrasounds, we monitor any changes in size.
Radioactive Iodine Therapy:
Indicated for "hot" or hyperfunctioning nodules that cause hyperthyroidism. The nodule absorbs the iodine, which reduces its size and normalises hormone levels.
Radiofrequency Ablation: The Non-Surgical Alternative
A minimally invasive technique for benign nodules presenting with compressive symptoms. Using ultrasound guided heat, we reduce the volume of the nodule without surgery or scars.
Surgery:
Surgical intervention (total or partial thyroidectomy) is the indicated path in cases of suspected malignancy, large goiters, or nodules that obstruct breathing, performed by Dr. Constanza Ballesta.
When should you consult our advanced endocrinology unit?
Not all symptoms are obvious, but the body emits signals that an expert eye knows how to interpret. You should visit our clinic if you experience:
- Presence of a palpable nodule: A lump in the front area of the neck that moves when swallowing.
- Thyroid symptoms in women over 40: Changes in the menstrual cycle, hair loss, or anxiety are often mistaken for perimenopause, when they may actually be due to a thyroid dysfunction.
- Marked difference between hypo and hyperthyroidism: If you notice extreme fatigue and unexplained weight gain (hypo) or, conversely, heart palpitations and weight loss (hyper).
- Mechanical difficulty: A feeling of tightness when swallowing or persistent changes in the tone of your voice.
Our specialist in thyroid nodule surgery, Dr Constanza Ballesta
Neck surgery requires pinpoint precision and expert hands. Dr Constanza Ballesta focuses on minimally invasive techniques with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure a full recovery and a quick return to normal life.
- Specialist in Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery. A leading figure in endocrine surgery with over 10 years of experience in the surgical treatment of thyroid disorders.
- Recognised Medical Excellence. Awarded "Doctor of the Year" in 2019 and recently distinguished as one of the best specialists in Catalonia (2025).
- Expert Training. As a graduate of the University of Barcelona, Dr. Constanza specialised in general and digestive surgery at the Catholic University of Leuven. Her oncology training includes prestigious fellowships at the Hospital Clínic in Barcelona and a role as clinical head of colorectal surgery at the Hospital Saint-Antoine in Paris.
Our multilingual endocrinology doctors
Our Answers To The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Thyroid Nodules?
Can thyroid nodules be prevented?
Are thyroid nodules cancerous?
I have thyroid nodules; are they dangerous?
Does thyroid surgery always leave a large scar?
How long will I be off work?
Dr. Constanza Ballesta has over 10 years of experience in thyroid nodules.
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