The Thyroid Nodule
- ANDRÉ J. VAN HERLE, M.D.;
- PHILIP RICH, M.D.;
- BRITT-MARIE E. LJUNG, M.D.;
- MICHAEL W. ASHCRAFT, M.D.;
- DAVID H. SOLOMON, M.D.; and
- EMMETT B. KEELER, Ph.D.
Abstract
The various techniques for evaluating a thyroid nodule are described and their relative values analyzed. Fine-needle aspiration is the most sensitive and specific test among the leading techniques, the others being ultrasonography and thyroid scanning. A combination of tests is also analyzed. In Plan A, a scan is followed by a fine-needle aspiration; in Plan B a scan is followed by thyroid ultrasound; and in Plan C, fine-needle aspiration is followed by a scan only in those subjects with cytologically suspicious lesions. Of the three plans, Plan C is superior from the standpoint of diagnostic accuracy and cost effectiveness. Improvement of existing tests or the addition of new tests for evaluating thyroid nodules will aid in distinguishing between benign and malignant thyroid nodules.
Article and Author Information
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▸An edited transcription of an Interdepartmental Conference arranged by the Department of Medicine of the UCLA School of Medicine; Los Angeles. California.
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▸Authors who wish to cite a section of this conference and specifically indicate its author can use this example of the form of reference:
RICH P. Ultrasonography of the thyroid nodule, pp 221-3. In: VAN HERLE AJ, moderator. The thyroid nodule. Ann Intern Med. 1982;96:221-32.
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▸Requests for reprints should be addressed to Andre J. Van Herle, M.D.; Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, UCLA School of Medicine; Los Angeles, CA 90024.
- © 1982 American College of Physicians
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