Thyroid Nodules

Question 1

How do you follow a thyroid nodule that has a benign FNA biopsy.

Answer 1

1) The false-negative rate of FNA biopsy is about 5%
2) Nodule growth alone is not an indication of malignancy, but growth is an indication for repeat FNA biopsy
3) ATA guidelines recommend serial clinical exam for easily palpable nodules at 6-18 month intervals
4) All other benign nodules should be followed with serial U/S examinations 6-18 months after initial FNA bx
- Pts with nodules that are stable at this f/u U/S may have subsequent examinations at longer time intervals
- Pts with evidence of nodule growth should have a repeat FNA bx, preferably with U/S guidance

Question 2

Diagnostic algorithm for evaluation of thyroid nodules

Answer 2