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The government is now operating in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.

How is thyroid cancer diagnosed?

Various tests, including physical examinations, blood tests, imaging scans, and biopsies, can be used to investigate thyroid cancer symptoms and determine a diagnosis; however, it's important to consult a doctor if experiencing these symptoms, as they may be indicative of other conditions.

A number of tests may be performed to investigate symptoms of thyroid cancer and confirm a diagnosis. Some of the more common tests include:  

  • physical examination and patient history 
  • blood tests to check thyroid and other hormone levels and help identify non-cancerous thyroid conditions[24] 
  • imaging tests of the thyroid, which may include ultrasound scan, computerised tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or positron emission tomography (PET) scan[25] 
  • nuclear medicine imaging such as a radioiodine scan, which involves taking a weak radioactive substance to show any abnormalities clearly 
  • internal examination of the voicebox using a laryngoscope – a thin tube with a light on the end of it 
  • removal of a small piece of tissue from the thyroid gland or a thyroid nodule (biopsy) for examination under a microscope 

There are a number of conditions that may cause these symptoms, not just thyroid cancer. If any of these symptoms are experienced, it is important that they are discussed with a doctor. 

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