Histopathological Spectrum of Solitary Thyroid Nodule

Abstract

Introduction: Solitary Thyroid nodule (STN) has been the subject of vigorous disagreement with divergent opinions. They can be of both non-neoplastic and neoplastic in nature and it is difficult to assess their nature by clinical examination alone. Imaging technique may help in differentiating them preoperatively but histological is the gold standard. The aim of the study was to differentiate various thyroid disorders manifesting as Solitary thyroid nodule on the basis of histomorphological features. Material and methods: A total of 68 cases of STNs received over the period of 24 months were studied and histopathological features were analysed. Results: In this study, non-neoplastic STNs were 38 (55.9%) and neoplastic were 30 (44.1%), the former being more common. There was a female preponderance in non- neoplastic and neoplastic STNs. Mean age of presentation of STNs was 42.09 years. Non-neoplastic lesions of thyroid were; 28 cases of colloid nodules, 7 cases of adenomatous nodule, 1 case of hyperplastic nodule and 2 cases of colloid cyst and the neoplastic lesions were; 17 cases of follicular adenoma, 11 cases of papillary carcinoma of thyroid (PTC), and 2 cases of follicular carcinoma. Conclusion: STNs are not so uncommon and comprise of a range of both non-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions. Colloid nodule and PTC are the most common of non-neoplastic and neoplastic STNs respectively.