An alternate model of thyroid cytology: practical not perfect.
A sample of 384 thyroid cytology specimens prepared by cytospin over a 2.5-year period was classified by original report into inadequate, non-neoplastic and suspicious of neoplasia or worse. This was then compared with subsequent histology. The resulting data showed an inadequacy rate of 33%, a sensitivity of 55%, a specificity of 59%, a positive predictive value of 64% and a negative predictive value of 93%. On review of the cytology, in knowledge of the subsequent histology, the maximum achievable results were determined to have a positive predictive value of 79% and a negative predictive value of 97%. No clinically significant adverse event was detected.
Holbrook
M R
MR
Department of Histopathology, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Infirmary Square, Leicester, UK. caliburn@innotts.co.uk
Kendall
C H
CH
Shaw
P A V
PA
D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D003581:Cytodiagnosis / Q000592:standards*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005188:False Negative Reactions; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D006801:Humans; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013959:Thyroid Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*