Recent Trends in the Management of Thyroid Nodules

Abstract

Thyroid nodules are common and are commonly benign. The reported prevalence of nodular thyroid disease depends on the population studied and the methods used to detect nodules.Numerous studies suggest a prevalence of 2-6% with palpation, 19-35% with ultrasound, and 8-65% in autopsy data.Roughly 5% of thyroid nodules are malignant. Pathologically, thyroid nodules are classifiable into 5 types with distinct histologic features: hyperplastic, neoplastic, colloid, cystic and thyroid nodules.Diagnostic tests can determine if a thyroid nodule is benign or malignant (cancerous); this information can help to guide treatment decisions.There are several diagnostic tests; (Thyroid stimulating hormone estimation, Thyroid ultrasound, Fine needle aspiration … etc.). The appropriate treatment for a thyroid nodule will depend upon the type of nodule. Benign nodules can usually be monitored over time.Surgery is the best treatment for thyroid nodules that are: cancerous (malignant), suspected to be cancerous and noncancerous (benign) but large enough to cause problems with breathing or swallowing.

Key words: Thyroid, Nodules, Management, Benign, Malignant, FNAC.