La Tiroides · Your next decision
I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. What’s next?
The first step is to confirm the cancer type and review the available tests with your team. Thyroid cancers are not all treated in the same way.
Bring biopsy and ultrasound reports and records of any prior surgery. Your team will assess whether more tests are needed, the extent of treatment and the follow-up plan. Active surveillance may be discussed in selected cases. Radioactive iodine is used for certain differentiated cancers and is not needed for everyone.
Questions for your appointment
What type of cancer do I have? What are my options? Do I need lymph node surgery or radioactive iodine? What will follow-up involve?
Read these chapters next
- Chapter 23 · Thyroid cancer
- Chapter 24 · Active surveillance
- Chapter 15 · Lobectomy or total thyroidectomy
- Chapter 25 · Lymph nodes and neck dissection
- Chapter 26 · Radioactive iodine
- Chapter 27 · Cancer follow-up
- Chapter 28 · Rare cancers
Sources and clinical context
This summary draws on the guide chapters linked above. Each chapter identifies its clinical reviewers and supporting references.
- American Thyroid Association · Thyroid nodules
- American Thyroid Association · Thyroid biopsy
- 2025 ATA differentiated thyroid cancer guidelines
This information supports a conversation with your care team. Treatment requires an individual assessment.