Characterization of Thyroid Nodules using Thyroid Scintigraphy

Abstract

Thyroid scintigraphy and Fine needle aspiration cytology is a diagnostic tool used in the clinical workup of solitary thyroid nodules, to triage them into operative and non- operative lesions, as they have higher incidence of malignancy. The main objective of this study was to characterize the thyroid nodule/s use thyroid scintigraphy and fine needle aspiration cytology. Thyroid scan and Fine needle aspiration biopsy was performed in 52 cases with clinically palpable thyroid nodule/s in the department of Nuclear medicine in Radiations and isotope center of Khartoum in period between 22.12.2010-1.6.211. Out of 52 cases, 44 (84.6%) were female and 8 (15.4%) were male. The mean age is 41 years. Diagnosed 48 (92.3%) cases as benign and 4 (7.7%) cases as malignant. The most common benign nodule was colloid goiter nodule 38 (73%). Although thyroid scan and Fine needle aspiration cytology is a good diagnostic tool for solitary thyroid nodules, ultrasound guided biopsy would have been better option for increasing accuracy of the diagnosis.