The efficacy of percutaneous AHI (arginine hydrochloride injection) for the treatment of recurrent thyroid cysts

Abstract

ObjectivesThyroid cysts remain a common clinical problem. Although simple aspiration, ethanol ablation, and radiofrequency ablation are effective, they have some limitations. There is therefore a need to identify a new and effective sclerosant for resolving these problems. The aim of this study was to test the efficacy as an active compound for sclerotherapy of thyroid cysts. Patients and methodsEight subjects whose thyroid cysts were recurrent despite repeated simple aspiration treatments were included in this study. The cysts were aspirated and then subjected to AHI. Lack of a significant reduction in cyst size (i.e. <50%) at follow-up resulted in further AHIs. Treatment success was defined as complete disappearance or a marked (i.e.>50%) reduction in the size of the cystic portion of the thyroid nodule on follow-up ultrasonography at least 6 months after the final AHI. ResultsA marked size reduction of>50% was ultimately found in all of the patients (100%), with a reduction varying from 73.68% to 99.07% (P<0.029). Six of the patients received a single AHI treatment, one received two AHIs, and one received three AHIs. None of the patients suffered from a recurrence during the follow-up period. Three patients experienced tolerable pain and local tenderness. No serious side effects were reported. ConclusionsIntracystic AHI may be a safe and effective treatment for benign thyroid cysts.