Malignancy in solitary thyroid nodule: A clinicoradiopathological evaluation

BACKGROUND: Thyroid nodules are common. They can be either benign or malignant. Solitary thyroid nodules (STN) have a high likelihood of being malignant. They should be characterized properly for optimum management. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, we have analyzed our departmental data over a period of 5 years. All the patients who presented to the outpatient department with a clinically detected STN were included in the study group. Our approach was individualized. Preoperative ultrasonography (USG) and fine-needle aspiration cytology were planned in all these patients. Hemi thyroidectomy and total thyroidectomy with and without neck dissection were performed wherever appropriate. RESULTS: There were 162 cases of clinically detected STN. USG findings were available in 146 cases. Postoperative histopathology was reported as malignant in 58 cases. Malignant STN was more likely in males. Ultrasonographically detected solid STN were more prone for malignancy as compared to multinodular goiter (P = 0.000) Presence of micro calcification and cervical lymphadenopathy were more commonly noted in malignant thyroid swellings. CONCLUSION: Solitary thyroid nodules do have a high likelihood of harboring a malignancy. Solid echogenicity, micro calcification and cervical lymphadenopathy on USG were seen more frequently in malignant nodules.