FAQs
Below you will find answers to questions we frequently receive. Endocrinology patients at Patuxent Endocrinology Associates in Prince Frederick, Maryland find this information helpful. Should you need further assistance, please call us at (443) 432-3020 and we will happily answer your questions.
General Questions
Please bring your new patient paperwork, health history, diagnostic testing results, and any important information related to your condition that you would like to discuss with Dr. Thomas.
Your first office consultation will last 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your health condition(s) and health history.
This depends on the endocrine disorder for which you are seen and will be discussed with you at your initial visit.
Health Questions
A biopsy is a procedure in which cells or tissues are collected from the body for further analysis. The sample will be examined by a pathologist to determine whether it contains cancerous cells.
- To determine if a lump in the neck is arising from the thyroid or the adjacent structures
- Evaluation of the thyroid nodule, which helps determine whether a fine needle aspiration biopsy is needed to rule out cancer in the thyroid nodule. Benign (non-cancerous) thyroid nodules can be monitored using regular intervals (6-12 months) for growth or change in appearance that will determine if a thyroid nodule needs to be biopsied.
- Evaluation of the lymph nodes in the neck, especially before thyroid surgery, is critical to determine if there are any abnormal lymph nodes that are suspicious for cancer and require biopsy.
- Evaluation of enlargements in the parathyroid gland/glands, seen in conditions of increased calcium in the blood called hyperparathyroidism and in parathyroid cancer
