Evaluation of the thyroid nodule.
BACKGROUND
Thyroid nodules are common, yet treatment modalities range from observation to surgical resection. Because thyroid nodules are frequently found incidentally during routine physical examination or imaging performed for another reason, physicians from a diverse range of specialties encounter thyroid nodules. Clinical decision making depends on proper evaluation of the thyroid nodule.


METHODS
The current literature was reviewed and synthesized.


RESULTS
Current evidence allows the formulation of recommendations and a general algorithm for evaluating the incidental thyroid nodule.


CONCLUSIONS
Only a small percentage of thyroid nodules require surgical management. Diagnosis and treatment selection require a risk stratification by history, physical examination, and ancillary tests. Nodules causing airway compression or those at high risk for carcinoma should prompt evaluation for surgical treatment. In nodules larger than 1 cm, fine-needle aspiration biopsy is central to the evaluation as it is accurate, low risk, and cost effective. Subcentimeter nodules, often found incidentally on imaging obtained for another purpose, can usually be evaluated by ultrasonography. Other laboratory and imaging evaluations have specific and more limited roles. An algorithm for the evaluation of the thyroid nodule is presented.
Lansford
Christopher D
CD
Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
Teknos
Theodoros N
TN
D044963:Biopsy, Fine-Needle; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D013964:Thyroid Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy; D016606:Thyroid Nodule / Q000266:history / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy; D013965:Thyroidectomy; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed