Thyroid nodule update on diagnosis and management.

Shrikant Tamhane,Hossein Gharib

doi:10.1186/s40842-016-0035-7

Shrikant Tamhane, Hossein Gharib

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s40842-016-0035-7

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Abstract

Thyroid nodules are common. The clinical importance of thyroid nodules is related to excluding malignancy (4.0 to 6.5% of all thyroid nodules), evaluate their functional status and assess for the presence of pressure symptoms. Incidental thyroid nodules are being diagnosed with increasing frequency in the recent years with the use of newer and highly sensitive imaging techniques. The high prevalence of thyroid nodules necessitates that the clinicians use evidence-based approaches for their assessment and management. New molecular tests have been developed to help with evaluation of malignancy in thyroid nodules. This review addresses advances in thyroid nodule evaluation, and their management considering the current guidelines and supporting evidence.

Highlights

Thyroid nodule is a discrete lesion in the thyroid gland that is radiologically distinct from the surrounding thyroid parenchyma [1]
Molecular markers The use of molecular markers in thyroid nodules has been suggested for diagnostic purpose in case of indeterminate cytological diagnosis, to assist with decision making about management option
Management Various factors including serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), clinical risk factor assessment, size of the nodule, ultrasound characteristics, patient preferences and results of the fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy should be considered in management of thyroid nodule

Summary

Introduction

Thyroid nodule is a discrete lesion in the thyroid gland that is radiologically distinct from the surrounding thyroid parenchyma [1]. Molecular markers The use of molecular markers in thyroid nodules has been suggested for diagnostic purpose in case of indeterminate cytological diagnosis, to assist with decision making about management option (surgical treatment).

Results

Conclusion