Understanding Struma Ovarii and Its Connection to Thyroid Nodules
Hello everyone, I am a 42-year-old woman who recently encountered a concerning health situation. Earlier this year in March, I was admitted to the ICU due to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and that was when a tumor was found in my ovary. In June, I underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy along with a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy because of this ovarian mass. As a result, I am now adjusting to surgical menopause while recuperating at home. Prior to the surgery, I had a benign thyroid nodule diagnosed as a colloid goiter, after having a biopsy in 2022, and my thyroid function was normal. Additionally, I manage type 2 diabetes. Now, two weeks after my operation, I’m facing a set of symptoms that are concerning: - Pain and swelling in the thyroid region, which seems to be more sensitive and inflamed compared to before. - Tenderness in my breasts, despite my OB-GYN indicating this shouldn’t occur after menopause. - A general feeling of inflammation and discomfort throughout my body. Though I am not experiencing fever or visible redness, it feels as if my entire system is responding to something. I have consulted with several doctors, yet I feel like the responses are not addressing my holistic situation that includes my thyroid, hormones, breast health, and potential immune responses. The biopsy of the ovarian mass confirmed it is benign (classified as struma ovarii), and my OB-GYN assured me that it is unrelated to my thyroid nodule. Could this situation be attributed to: - A potential flare of thyroiditis caused by surgical stress? - A sudden drop in hormones due to surgical menopause? - An inflammatory reaction resulting from the operation? - Breast pain stemming from lingering hormonal adjustments? - Or possibly something more serious? I would be grateful for any insights from medical professionals or individuals who have faced similar experiences. What diagnostic tests should I consider? What specialists should I reach out to next—an endocrinologist or an ENT for the nodule? My goal is to uncover the underlying cause rather than to simply undergo another procedure. I’ve heard that growths can recur in other organs or areas if the root cause remains unidentified. Thank you for taking the time to read my post and for any assistance you can provide as I navigate through this. 🙏
Answers (1)
7/2/2025, 11:01:32 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through a challenging time with multiple interconnected health concerns. Your symptoms and history suggest several possible explanations for what you’re experiencing, including hormonal changes after surgery, inflammation due to stress, and potential thyroid issues. Let’s break this down.
Main Points:
- Symptoms Post-Surgery: Your thyroid tenderness, breast pain, and overall discomfort could be linked to surgical stress, hormonal shifts, or inflammation.
- Examination of Hormonal Changes: Sudden surgical menopause can lead to a variety of symptoms due to changes in estrogen levels.
- Potential Thyroiditis or Inflammation: Stress from surgery might exacerbate any underlying thyroid issues or lead to new ones.
Explanation:
- Surgical Stress and Thyroiditis: The stress of surgery can sometimes trigger thyroiditis, an inflammation of the thyroid, which might explain the pain and swelling you’re experiencing.
- Hormonal Changes: After a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, your body stops producing estrogen, leading to menopausal symptoms, including breast tenderness. This can also contribute to systemic feelings of discomfort.
- Inflammation: Surgery can cause generalized inflammation, possibly intensifying any autoimmune responses, or leading to localized issues like tenderness in the thyroid area.
- Breast Pain: Hormonal adjustments can also lead to breast sensitivity, which can still occur post-menopause.
Next Steps:
- Keep a Symptom Journal: Document your symptoms daily, including pain levels, any new symptoms, and possible triggers. This will help your healthcare team in diagnosing your condition.
- Consult Specialists: Reach out to:
- An Endocrinologist: They can evaluate your thyroid function again, check for thyroiditis, and discuss any links with your breast symptoms.
- A Gynecologist or Reproductive Endocrinologist: They can help manage menopausal symptoms and assess your breast health further.
- Diagnostic Tests:
- Thyroid Function Tests: To assess your TSH, T3, and T4 levels again.
- Thyroid Ultrasound: To evaluate any changes in your thyroid nodules or possible signs of inflammation.
- Hormonal Panel: To measure hormone levels and assess how your body is adjusting post-surgery.
- Consider Nutritional Support: Ensure you are eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats) to support your recovery.
Remember, it's essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and concerns. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, but taking these structured steps can help you clarify your situation and drive forward in addressing your health comprehensively. You are not alone in this, and it’s good to seek support.
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