Approach to thyroid nodules

Abstract

Nodular thyroid disease is a common endocrinopathy that prevalence varies according to the iodine uptake. Nodular goiter becomes more prevalent in both gender as the age increases. When patient with a thyroid nodule is seen compression symptoms, thyroid function and malign-benign separation are the first investigations that should be performed. The next step should be the evaluation of the nodule to decide whether surgery or medical treatment is required. After clinical evaluation of a patient with a thyroid nodule, serum TSH measurement and ultrasonographic evaluation are the first investigations that should be performed. Cytological examination of fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) specimens has been proved to be the most efficient and specific method of diagnosing thyroid cancer preoperatively. © 2012 OMU.