Affiliation:
1. Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute at the University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida.
Abstract
Background Clinically detectable thyroid nodules occur in up to 4% of the population in the United States. With ultrasound, nodules may be found in up to 50% of those over 50 years of age. Methods The author reviews his own experience as well as that of others to define a sound clinical approach to the differential diagnosis and detection of thyroid cancer. Results Prior neck irradiation is a risk factor for thyroid malignancy. The association of a thyroid nodule with enlarged lymph nodes or fixation of the nodule to strap muscles or the trachea suggests malignancy. A diffusely multinodular gland is usually benign. Conclusions Thyroid function tests rarely help a differential diagnosis. Fine-needle aspiration is the “gold standard” for diagnosis. Tiny “incidentalomas” are often followed with repeat monitoring for change of size or character.
Subject
Oncology,Hematology,General Medicine
Cited by
23 articles.
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