Atlantic Pathology

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid gland is butterfly-shaped, is located in front of the neck, and produces hormones that regulate part of our body’s metabolism. It also helps regulate calcium levels. For it to function properly, it is necessary to have a balanced diet with the amount of iodine required for the production of thyroid hormones.

What are thyroid nodules?

Thyroid nodules are regrowth or tumors that cover the thyroid gland. Thyroid nodules are very common in the population. We know that most of these are in women and may be associated with rheumatologic diseases as well as iodine deficiencies in the diet. However, its root causes are unknown. Many of these nodules are palpable and visible in the neck area, making it uncomfortable for some patients. Sometimes, patients show symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, hoarseness, neck pain and others.

What are palpable and non-tangible nodules?

Palpable nodules are easily detected by physical examination by your doctor. However, non-palpable lymph nodes require a more rigorous study such as an ultrasound study, also known as a sonogram. Through ultrasound, the lump may be studied and a sample is obtained using the technique of fine needle puncture (fine needle aspiration, FNA).

What are cold and hot lymph nodes?

A nuclear scan (also known as thyroid scan) can determine the ability of nodules to metabolize iodine. By administering a radioactive iodine pill, we can study the way in which the nodule metabolizes iodine. Cold nodules do not metabolize a portion of radioiodine during the study. Hot nodules capture (metabolize) radioactive iodine during the study. We know that the probability of detecting cancer in a solitary cold nodule is greater than that of hot nodules, although the probability is low in both.

What is fine needle aspiration guided by ultrasonography (USG-FNA) and what is its function?

The USG-FNA, for its English acronym, is a simple test by which the ultrasound technique studies localized nodules; and cells are obtained using a thin needle pointed at the nodule. Once the sample is taken, a specialist pathologist looks at the cells under a microscope and issues a final diagnosis. According to most studies, the likelihood that a biopsy of thyroid nodules finds cancer is low, less than 5%.

Welcome to Atlantic Pathology

Atlantic Pathology, Inc. was founded as an alternative in Puerto Rico to offer pathology services that are more accessible to patients, medical specialists, and health professionals. At Atlantic Pathology, Inc. we faithfully believe in breaking away from the traditional path of the "pathologist behind the microscope", therefore we provide visible and accessible services. We believe in actively integrating our pathologist, Dr. Rodríguez, in the team as he diagnoses and manages the patient’s case.

Our Mission...

To be the leader in Puerto Rico in providing maximum quality services in the area of anatomical and clinical pathology by using technological efficiency and showing a true commitment to our patients.

Our Vision...

To be the pathology laboratory with the greatest patient commitment and dedication, maintaining a high level of humanism and quality values as well as professionalism in our performance when offering health services.

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Contact Us

Mailing Address:

PMB 59

400 Calle Calaf

San Juan PR 00918

Medical Services

Atlantic Pathology’s main office is conveniently located at Manatí. We also offer Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) clinics at the Torre Médica in Plaza Las Americas and Hospital Susoni in Arecibo. For appointments, contact us at 787-854-7270 or 787-221-0171. Our operating hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 a. m. to 5:00 p. m. We accept most health insurance plans.

Contact Us

Physical Address:

Calle Mckinkley I-26

Urb. Flamboyan

Manatí, P.R. 00674