Thyroid Disorders Care

Thyroid disorders are problems with the thyroid, the small butterfly-shaped, hormone-producing gland in the front of the neck. The multispecialty team of endocrinologists, thyroid surgeons, ear, nose and throat (ENT) physicians and nuclear medicine specialists at Henry Ford Health work together to treat hundreds of people with thyroid disorders.

Why choose Henry Ford Health for thyroid disorders care?

Our experts are leaders in thyroid treatment, offering a level of experience that leads to better patient outcomes. The entire team specializes in tailoring care to your needs, using the latest advanced technologies and treatments.

The Henry Ford Health difference:

Leading-edge tests and therapies: We offer multiple advanced services on-site, so you don’t have to travel outside our system for diagnosis and treatment. For example, our team offers in-office ultrasounds, biopsies with molecular testing, radiofrequency ablation and minimally invasive surgeries.
Research emphasis: Not only do we use the latest treatment techniques — we study and help develop them. Our thyroid specialists participate in many research projects and clinical trials. In some cases, you have access to promising new therapies through clinical trial treatments.
Collaborative care: Many thyroid conditions and growths are noncancerous (benign). If you do have thyroid cancer, you receive comprehensive, leading-edge endocrine tumor care. Our tumor board helps guide therapy from our endocrinologists, ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons, nuclear medicine doctors and oncologists.

Thyroid diseases we treat
When it’s functioning properly, the thyroid gland releases hormones that control your metabolism. Metabolism is your body’s process of converting food into energy. A thyroid disorder disrupts your balance of hormones and affects your metabolism, causing symptoms.

Our team has special training to diagnose and manage all types of thyroid disorders, including:

Hyperthyroidism, when the thyroid gland produces excess hormones

Hypothyroidism, when the thyroid gland underproduces hormones

Graves’ disease, a type of hyperthyroidism that can cause eye problems

Thyroid cancer, when cancerous cells develop and grow in the thyroid gland

Thyroid goiter, an enlarged thyroid gland

Thyroid nodules, growths on the thyroid gland, which can be cancerous or benign
Thyroid disorder tests and treatments
Our expert team offers a wide range of advanced tests and treatments for thyroid problems, including:

Thyroid biopsies: A thyroid biopsy involves taking a small cell or tissue sample from the thyroid to evaluate under a microscope.

Thyroid biopsies with molecular testing: We use molecular testing to further evaluate tissue samples from thyroid growths (tumors). These tests help us understand more about tumor function, so we can determine the best treatment option.

Thyroidectomy: This surgery involves removing all or part of the thyroid gland. Our surgeons offer many types of specialized thyroidectomies, including minimally invasive thyroidectomy, re-operative thyroidectomy and robotic facelift thyroidectomy.

Radiofrequency ablation: This nonsurgical procedure uses controlled heat to destroy thyroid nodules. Radiofrequency ablation is an effective alternative to surgery for many patients.

New treatments through research studies: Our specialists continually research new medications and therapies for thyroid disorders. Depending on your eligibility, you may have access to new and promising treatments through clinical trials.
Thyroid disorder FAQs

How common are thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders are very common, affecting up to 20 million Americans.

How do thyroid disorders affect daily life?

Thyroid problems can impact your ability to participate in your daily life. Some conditions, like thyroid nodules, may be noticed due to difficulty swallowing or voice changes. Thyroid function problems, like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can be associated with weight changes, palpitations, bowel changes, sweating or skin changes, among others.

Why should I see a specialist for a thyroid disorder?

Thyroid specialists are experts in managing thyroid conditions to help you identify the type of thyroid problem you are having and offer a variety of treatment options to help you feel better. At Henry Ford Health, you have access to a full range of treatments with experienced doctors.
Thyroid disorder care locations

We have clinics across Michigan and offer virtual visits when appropriate.