Routine Checkup Reveals Hidden Thyroid Cancer in Florida Woman

Andrea Pugh-Kelley, a 31-year-old environmental scientist from Tallahassee, Florida, recently discovered she had a rare thyroid cancer during a routine gynecological visit. Although she could have skipped the appointment, her decision to attend proved lifesaving.

During the standard examination, Pugh-Kelley’s gynecologist conducted a breast exam, typical gynecological exams, and checked her throat. This led to the discovery of a swollen nodule and potential thyroiditis, prompting a recommendation for an ultrasound and thyroid panel. It was during this thorough examination that oncocytic thyroid cancer, also known as Hurthle cell carcinoma, was diagnosed.

This type of cancer often goes unnoticed because it typically does not cause symptoms until tumors grow large enough to impact other areas. The Cleveland Clinic notes it’s often detected during routine exams when a healthcare provider feels a thyroid lump. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, a painful lump, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and weight loss.

Pugh-Kelley had been dissatisfied with prior care from her OB-GYN and primary care doctor. Returning to her regular gynecologist after the birth of her daughter led to the critical discovery. She began noticing discomfort while swallowing and increasing raspiness in her voice. Despite the tumor’s size, she had not previously detected it, but every doctor she consulted with quickly noticed it, indicating rapid growth.

She underwent a robotic thyroidectomy to remove the solid Hurthle cell carcinoma tumor. Further tests to check her thyroid levels are planned, but additional treatment is not currently expected.

Pugh-Kelley reflected on the missed opportunity to skip the gynecology appointment, emphasizing how easy it is for women, particularly mothers, to neglect their own health while caring for children. Her biopsy showed undetermined results but noted significant oncocytic change, shocking her gynecologist.

Expressing gratitude, Pugh-Kelley praised her gynecologist’s thoroughness and encouraged everyone to schedule every relevant appointment. Specialists can identify issues unknown to patients, prompting her to urge others not to dismiss their concerns and seek second opinions.

Thyroid cancer is less common in Black women than in white women, yet Black patients face higher risks of advanced disease and lower survival rates. Pugh-Kelley acknowledged that without her gynecologist’s care, she might have become part of these statistics. Extensive disparities by race and ethnicity in thyroid care are documented in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.

The American Cancer Society states thyroid cancer is nearly three times more common in women than men and up to 50 percent less common in Black people compared to other groups.

Pugh-Kelley shared a message for doctors: taking extra time and asking additional questions truly makes a difference. Her gynecologist’s efforts may have altered her life’s path.