Incidental thyroid nodules on COVID-19-related thoracic tomography scans: a giant cohort.

INTRODUCTION: Computerized thoracic tomography (CT) imaging was extensively employed, especially in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. An incidental thyroid nodule (ITN) is defined as a nodule not previously detected or suspected clinically but identified via an imaging study. The present study aimed to determine the incidence of thyroid nodules incidentally detected in thoracic CTs for the suspicion of COVID-19 pneumonia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult patients who underwent thoracic CT in our hospital for COVID-19 management were retrospectively identified between March 2020 and September 2020. Medical information registered in the hospital and national health system was reviewed. The prevalence of incidental thyroid nodules at CT, thyroid function test results of patients with incidental lesions, correlation of CT findings with ultrasonography (US) findings, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) results were evaluated. RESULTS: We analyzed 35,113 patients who had COVID-19-indicated CT scans. There was information about the thyroid gland in CT reports of 3049 patients. The prevalence of ITN was 3.82% (1343/35,113 patients) and thyroid heterogeneity was 1.11% (388/35,113 patients). While it was explicitly stated that no pathology was found in the patient's thyroid gland in 3.75% of patients (1318/35,113), no information was given about the thyroid gland in 91.32% of the patients (32064/35,113). Thus, the number of patients informed about their thyroid was 3049 (8.68%) and the number of patients with thyroid pathology was 1731 (4.93%). It was observed that 308 of 1731 patients (17.80%) had follow-up thyroid US. An FNAB was indicated in 238 patients (87.50%). Of the 238 patients with indication for biopsy, only 115 (48.31%) underwent a thyroid FNAB. The cytological diagnosis was benign in 59 (51.30%), non-diagnostic in 30 (26.08%), atypia of uncertain significance in 22 (19.13%), and suspected follicular neoplasia/follicular neoplasia in four patients (3.46%). Thyroidectomy was performed in six more patients due to large nodules and the final diagnosis was benign in two and papillary thyroid cancer in three patients. CONCLUSION: Increased use of thoracic CT during the COVID-19 pandemic probably enabled improved detection of ITNs. In this large-scale study, the prevalence of thyroid nodules reported with thoracic CT was 3.82%, while thyroid cancer was detected in 1.30% of patients evaluated with US. We recommend against using thoracic CT scans as a direct means of assessing thyroid disease owing to the low number of detected cancer cases in our cohort of 35,113 patients. However, thoracic CT scans obtained for various reasons might provide the opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disease, including cancers.

Patient's point of view on the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up in acromegaly: single-center study from a tertiary center.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the awareness and perspectives of acromegaly patients in the diagnosis and treatment processes and to evaluate basic clinical and demographic features. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Endocrinology Department of Yildirim Beyazit University between March 2019 and April 2020. A total of 58 acromegalic patients were enrolled. All patients were identified from our database and called for a clinical visit and filling the questionnaire forms. RESULTS: A total of 58 patients were included in this study (41.4% female). The mean age of the patients was 52±10.8 years. Median year from symptom to diagnosis (min-max) was 2 (1-12). Notably, 55.2% of the patients did not graduate from high school. Of the 58 patients, 30 (51.7%) patients had knowledge about the etiology of their disease. While 12 (20.7%) patients identified their initial symptoms themselves, 75% of the patients reported their symptoms during the clinical history taken by a health care professional. The majority of patients were diagnosed by an endocrinologist (69%). Acromegaly did not affect social life but affected work life and caused early retirement. Transsphenoidal surgery was performed as primary treatment in 96.6% of the patients (n=56). In all, 46 (79.3%) patients received medical treatment with somatostatin receptor ligands (e.g., octreotide or lanreotide long-acting release [LAR]) with or without cabergoline. Overall disease control was achieved in 38 (65.5%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: Acromegaly is usually detected incidentally by clinicians. The diagnosis of acromegaly is delayed in most patients and disease-related complications have already developed at the time of diagnosis. Therefore, increasing the awareness of the society and health care professionals will reduce both disease-related comorbidities and the economic burden on the health system.

Patient's point of view on the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up in acromegaly: single-center study from a tertiary center

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the awareness and perspectives of acromegaly patients in the diagnosis and treatment processes and to evaluate basic clinical and demographic features. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Endocrinology Department of Yildirim Beyazit University between March 2019 and April 2020. A total of 58 acromegalic patients were enrolled. All patients were identified from our database and called for a clinical visit and filling the questionnaire forms. RESULTS: A total of 58 patients were included in this study (41.4% female). The mean age of the patients was 52±10.8 years. Median year from symptom to diagnosis (min-max) was 2 (1-12). Notably, 55.2% of the patients did not graduate from high school. Of the 58 patients, 30 (51.7%) patients had knowledge about the etiology of their disease. While 12 (20.7%) patients identified their initial symptoms themselves, 75% of the patients reported their symptoms during the clinical history taken by a health care professional. The majority of patients were diagnosed by an endocrinologist (69%). Acromegaly did not affect social life but affected work life and caused early retirement. Transsphenoidal surgery was performed as primary treatment in 96.6% of the patients (n=56). In all, 46 (79.3%) patients received medical treatment with somatostatin receptor ligands (e.g., octreotide or lanreotide long-acting release [LAR]) with or without cabergoline. Overall disease control was achieved in 38 (65.5%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: Acromegaly is usually detected incidentally by clinicians. The diagnosis of acromegaly is delayed in most patients and disease-related complications have already developed at the time of diagnosis. Therefore, increasing the awareness of the society and health care professionals will reduce both disease-related comorbidities and the economic burden on the health system.

Are clinicopathological features of the isthmic thyroid nodule different from nodules in thyroid lobes? A single center experience

ABSTRACT Objectives: Thyroid nodules located in isthmus were found less prevalent, although papillary thyroid cancer in this location was reported to be more aggressive behaviour in some studies. Our aim was to evaluate hormonal,ultrasonographic, and cytopathologic features of nodules located in isthmus (isthmic nodules). Subjects and methods: Patients who underwent thyroidectomy between 2006-2014 reviewed retrospectively. Hormonal, ultrasonographic, and cytopathologic features compared between patients with isthmic (Group-1) and with lober (non-isthmic, Group-2) nodules. Results: Group-1 and Group-2 consisted of 251 and 2076 patients, respectively. 260 isthmic (5.5%) and 4433 non-isthmic (94.5%) nodules were compared.However,most ultrasonographical features such as presence of microcalcification and halo, diameters, echogenicity, texture, margin, and vascularity were similar between groups, macrocalcification rate was lower in isthmic nodules (18.8%, 25.9%; p = 0.012). Cytologic results were also similar.Although malignancy rate was lower in isthmic nodules (6.2%, 12.5%; p = 0.002), type of thyroid cancer was similar in isthmic and non-isthmic nodules.When malignant isthmic (n = 16,2.8%) and malignant non-isthmic nodules (n = 553, 97.2%) were compared, diameter and type of tumor, lymphovascular and capsular invasions, extrathyroidal extension and multifocality rates were not statistically significant.Malignant isthmic nodules (n = 16, 6.2%) had smaller size [10.1 (7.5-34.5) mm, 19.95 (8.4-74.1) mm; p = 0.002], and higher hypoechogenicity rate (31.3%, 5.7%, p = 0.003) compared to benign isthmic nodules (n = 244, 93.8%). Negative predictive value was higher and positive predictive value was lower in isthmic nodules compared to non-isthmic nodules (p = 0.033, p = 0.047, respectively). Conclusion: Isthmic nodules appear to be indolent because of having lower malignancy rate. FNAB might be required in isthmic nodules even if it has relatively small size.The surgery with limited extent or follow-up might seem to be reliable in the management of patients having isthmic nodules especially with indeterminate cytology.

The value of serum thyroglobulin alteration after ultrasonography-guided fine-needle biopsy of suspicious cervical lymph nodes in the diagnosis of metastasis in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer.

BACKGROUND: It is known that serum thyroglobulin (TG) can increase after fine-needle biopsy of thyroid nodules. We aimed to determine whether TG is increased after ultrasonography (US)-guided fine needle capillary biopsy (FNC) of suspicious cervical lymph nodes (LNs) in thyroidectomised patients and investigate the possible association between change in TG and cytology results. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data of 188 patients who underwent FNC of suspicious cervical LNs were retrospectively evaluated. Demographical, laboratory and ultrasonography features of LNs were noted. TG levels before FNC (TGb-FNC ), after FNC (TGa-FNC ), TGa-FNC /TGb-FNC ratio and the number of patients with increased TG were determined. Patients were grouped as benign, nondiagnostic, suspicious for malignancy and malignant according to the cytological results. RESULTS: TGa-FNC , TGb-FNC /TGa-FNC and rate of patients with increased TG were significantly higher in malignant cytology group than other groups (P < .001). The optimal cut-off level of TG increase that was predictive for malignancy was 7.6% with a sensitivity of 73.7% and specificity of 85.2%. TG increase was not associated with age, sex, Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level, anti-TG positivity and US features of LNs while significantly lower in patients who received radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment. Among 31 patients with positive anti-TG, TGb-FNC /TGa-FNC , and rate of patients with increased TG were higher in malignant compared to benign and nondiagnostic cytology groups. CONCLUSIONS: Serum TG increment and rate of patients with increased TG after FNC of suspicious cervical LNs were higher in patients with malignant cytology than with all other cytology results both in all study group and in sub-group of anti-TG positive patients. Increase in TG after FNC might be an additional tool for determining LN metastasis.

Are clinicopathological features of the isthmic thyroid nodule different from nodules in thyroid lobes? A single center experience.

OBJECTIVE: Thyroid nodules located in isthmus were found less prevalent, although papillary thyroid cancer in this location was reported to be more aggressive behaviour in some studies. Our aim was to evaluate hormonal, ultrasonographic, and cytopathologic features of nodules located in isthmus (isthmic nodules). METHODS: Patients who underwent thyroidectomy between 2006-2014 reviewed retrospectively. Hormonal, ultrasonographic, and cytopathologic features compared between patients with isthmic (Group-1) and with lober (non-isthmic, Group-2) nodules. RESULTS: Group-1 and Group-2 consisted of 251 and 2076 patients, respectively. 260 isthmic (5.5%) and 4433 non-isthmic (94.5%) nodules were compared. However, most ultrasonographical features such as presence of microcalcification and halo, diameters, echogenicity, texture, margin, and vascularity were similar between groups, macrocalcification rate was lower in isthmic nodules (18.8%, 25.9%; p = 0.012). Cytologic results were also similar. Although malignancy rate was lower in isthmic nodules (6.2%, 12.5%; p = 0.002), type of thyroid cancer was similar in isthmic and non-isthmic nodules. When malignant isthmic (n = 16,2.8%) and malignant non-isthmic nodules (n = 553, 97.2%) were compared, diameter and type of tumor, lymphovascular and capsular invasions, extrathyroidal extension and multifocality rates were not statistically significant. Malignant isthmic nodules (n = 16, 6.2%) had smaller size [10.1 (7.5-34.5) mm, 19.95 (8.4-74.1) mm; p = 0.002], and higher hypoechogenicity rate (31.3%, 5.7%, p = 0.003) compared to benign isthmic nodules (n = 244, 93.8%). Negative predictive value was higher and positive predictive value was lower in isthmic nodules compared to non-isthmic nodules (p = 0.033, p = 0.047, respectively). CONCLUSION: Isthmic nodules appear to be indolent because of having lower malignancy rate. FNAB might be required in isthmic nodules even if it has relatively small size. The surgery with limited extent or follow-up might seem to be reliable in the management of patients having isthmic nodules especially with indeterminate cytology.

Papillary thyroid microcarcinomas that metastasize to lymph nodes.

PURPOSE: We aimed to determine clinicopathological features that can predict lymph node metastasis (LNM) in papillary thyroid microcarcinomas (PTMC). METHODS: Medical records of 872 patients with papillary thyroid cancer >1 cm (PTC > 1 cm) and 1184 patients with papillary thyroid microcancer (PTMC) (≤1 cm) were reviewed retrospectively. Demographical, clinical and histopathological features of (PTC > 1 cm) and PTMC were compared. Association between clinicopathological features and LNM in PTMC was investigated. RESULTS: The median age of patients with PTMC was significantly higher than patients with PTC > 1 cm (49 vs 46 years old, p < 0.001). Multifocality, capsular invasion, vascular invasion, extrathyroidal extension (ETE) and LNM were more frequent in patients with PTC > 1 cm compared to patients with PMTC (p < 0.001 for each). In PTMC group, those with LNM had significantly higher proportion of multifocality, capsular invasion, vascular invasion and ETE compared to those without LNM (p = 0.007, <0.001, p = 0.011 and p < 0.001, respectively). Multifocality and ETE were significant factors for LNM with logistic regression analysis. Multifocality increased the risk of LNM by 1.737 times (95% CI: 1.079-2.979) and ETE increased the risk by 3.528 times (95%: 1.914-6.503). Primary tumor diameter ≥ 5.75 mm was predictive for LNM with a sensitivity of 0.782 and a specificity of 0.517 in PTMC. CONCLUSIONS: LNM should be investigated more carefully in patients with PTMC in the presence of tumor diameter ≥ 5.75 mm, multifocality or ETE.

Ultrasound elastography score and strain index in different parathyroid lesions.

BACKGROUND: Despite significant improvement in imaging quality and advanced scientific knowledge, it may still sometimes be difficult to distinguish different parathyroid lesions. The aims of this prospective study were to evaluate parathyroid lesions with ultrasound elastography and to determine whether strain index can help to differentiate parathyroid lesions. METHODS: Patients with biochemically confirmed hyperparathyroidism and localised parathyroid lesions in ultrasonography were included. All patients underwent B-mode US and USE examination. Ultrasound elastography scores and strain index of lesions were determined. Strain index was defined as the ratio of strain of the thyroid parenchyma to the strain of the parathyroid lesion. RESULTS: Data of 245 lesions of 230 patients were analysed. Histopathologically, there were 202 (82.45%) parathyroid adenomas, 26 (10.61%) atypical parathyroid adenomas, and 17 (6.94%) cases of parathyroid hyperplasia. Median serum Ca was significantly higher in atypical parathyroid adenoma patients than parathyroid hyperplasia patients (P = 0.019) and median PTH was significantly higher in APA compared to PA patients (P < 0.001). In 221 (90.2%) of the parathyroid lesions, USE score was 1 or 2. The median SI of atypical parathyroid adenomas was significantly higher than parathyroid adenomas and hyperplasia lesions (1.5 (0.56-4.86), 1.01 (0.21-8.43) and 0.91 (0.26-2.02), respectively, P = 0.003). CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that SI of parathyroid lesions as well as serum calcium, parathyroid hormone levels, and B-mode US features may help to predict the atypical parathyroid adenoma. Ultrasound elastography can be used to differentiate among parathyroid lesions and guide a surgical approach.

Thyroid malignancy risk in different clinical thyroid diseases

Background/aim: To evaluate the malignancy risk of thyroid nodules in different clinical thyroid diseases. Materials and methods: Patients who underwent thyroidectomy between 2007 and 2014 were grouped as euthyroid, hypothyroid, and hyperthyroid. Further classification was made depending on the presence of solitary/multiple thyroid nodules. Results: Among 2870 patients, 1719 (59.9%) were euthyroid, 962 (33.5%) were hyperthyroid, and 189 (6.6%) were hypothyroid. Overall malignancy was detected in 980 (34.1%) patients. Malignancy rates were 42.1%, 42.9%, and 18.3% in the euthyroid, hypothyroid, and hyperthyroid groups, respectively (P < 0.001). A total 41.4% of patients with euthyroid nodular goiter (ENG) and 46.3% of patients with euthyroid multinodular goiter (EMNG) had thyroid malignancy (P = 0.169). Mean tumor size and capsular and vascular invasion were significantly lower in EMNG than in ENG. Among hypothyroid patients, 45.7% with solitary and 42.2% with multiple nodules were malignant (P = 0.705). When toxic nodular goiter and toxic multinodular goiter were analyzed together, malignancy rate was 24.7% (104/421), and when Graves with nodule/nodules was considered, it was 19.7% (59/299). Conclusion: In hypothyroid or euthyroid patients who underwent thyroidectomy, malignancy rate was higher than 40%, and was lower in hyperthyroid patients. Patients with multiple nodules carry a similar risk of malignancy as patients with solitary nodules, independent of the functional status.

Can ratio of the biggest tumor diameter to total tumor diameter be a new parameter in the differential diagnosis of agressive and favorable multifocal papillary thyroid microcarcinoma?

OBJECTIVES: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the usefulness of a new parameter -ratio of the biggest tumor diameter to total tumor diameter- for the differentiation of agressive and favorable papillary thyroid microcarcinomas (PTMC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The diameter of the biggest tumor focus was taken as the primary tumor diameter. Total tumor diameter was calculated as the sum of the maximal diameter of each lesion. Ratio of primary tumor diameter to total tumor diameter was defined as tumor diameter ratio (TDR). Positive and negative predictive value, sensitivity and specificity of TDR to predict capsular invasion, extrathyroidal extension (ETE) and lymph node metastasis (LNM) were determined. RESULTS: Mean TDR was significantly lower in multifocal PTMC patients with capsular invasion, ETE, lymphovascular invasion and LNM compared to patients without these features. The sensitivities of TDR for the detection of LNM, ETE and capsular invasion were 100%, 100% and 94.2%, respectively. Specificity of TDR was 86.2% for LNM, 88% for ETE and 94.7% for capsular invasion. Best cut off values of TDR that can predict capsular invasion, ETE and LNM in multifocal PTMC were 0.62, 0.57 and 0.56, respectively. Multifocal papillary thyroid carcinoma patients with capsular invasion, ETE and LNM had significantly lower mean TDR when compared to ones without these features. CONCLUSION: Decreased TDR was associated with capsular invasion, ETE and LNM in patients with multifocal PTMC and PTC. This new parameter might be particularly helpful for the detection of aggressive behavior in multifocal PTMCs.

Hypocalcemia development in patients operated for primary hyperparathyroidism: Can it be predicted preoperatively?

OBJECTIVE: Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) is a common endocrine disease, and its most effective treatment is surgery. Postoperative hypocalcemia is a morbidity of parathyroid surgeries, and it may extend hospitalization durations. The purpose of this study is to determine the predictive factors related to the development of hypocalcemia and hungry bone syndrome (HBS) in patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Laboratory data comprising parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphate, 25-OHD, albumin, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) of the patients were recorded preoperatively, on the 1st and 4th days postoperatively, and in the 6th postoperative month, and their neck ultrasound (US) and bone densitometry data were also recorded. RESULTS: Hypocalcemia was seen in 63 patients (38.4%) on the 1st day after parathyroidectomy. Ten patients (6.1%) had permanent hypocalcemia in the 6th month after surgery. Out of the patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP, 22 (13.4%) had HBS. The incidence of postoperative hypocalcemia was higher in patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP, who had parathyroid hyperplasia, and who had osteoporosis. Preoperative PTH, ALP, and BUN values were higher in those patients who developed HBS. Furthermore, HBS was more common in patients who had osteoporosis, who had parathyroid hyperplasia, and who underwent thyroidectomy simultaneously with parathyroidectomy. CONCLUSIONS: As a result, patients who have the risk factors for development of hypocalcemia and HBS should be monitored more attentively during the perioperative period.

Hypocalcemia development in patients operated for primary hyperparathyroidism: Can it be predicted preoperatively?

ABSTRACT Objective Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) is a common endocrine disease, and its most effective treatment is surgery. Postoperative hypocalcemia is a morbidity of parathyroid surgeries, and it may extend hospitalization durations. The purpose of this study is to determine the predictive factors related to the development of hypocalcemia and hungry bone syndrome (HBS) in patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP. Materials and methods Laboratory data comprising parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium, phosphate, 25-OHD, albumin, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) of the patients were recorded preoperatively, on the 1st and 4th days postoperatively, and in the 6th postoperative month, and their neck ultrasound (US) and bone densitometry data were also recorded. Results Hypocalcemia was seen in 63 patients (38.4%) on the 1st day after parathyroidectomy. Ten patients (6.1%) had permanent hypocalcemia in the 6th month after surgery. Out of the patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP, 22 (13.4%) had HBS. The incidence of postoperative hypocalcemia was higher in patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for PHP, who had parathyroid hyperplasia, and who had osteoporosis. Preoperative PTH, ALP, and BUN values were higher in those patients who developed HBS. Furthermore, HBS was more common in patients who had osteoporosis, who had parathyroid hyperplasia, and who underwent thyroidectomy simultaneously with parathyroidectomy. Conclusions As a result, patients who have the risk factors for development of hypocalcemia and HBS should be monitored more attentively during the perioperative period.

Correlation of normal thyroid ultrasonography with thyroid tests.

BACKGROUND: Thyroid disorders are frequently seen in the community. Thyroid ultrasonography (US) is commonly used in the diagnosis of thyroid diseases. The relationship between heterogeneous echogenicity of thyroid gland and thyroid tests are well known. METHODS: The aim of this study is to evaluate the correlation of normal US with the thyroid tests. A total of 681 individuals were enrolled in the study. Individuals were separated into two groups as normal (group 1) and hypoechoic (group 2) according to the echogenicity in US. Subjects with nodular thyroid lesions were excluded from the study. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4 (fT4), thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) and anti-thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) values were recorded in both groups and thyroid stimulating hormone receptor antibody (TRAb) was recorded in individuals with low TSH. RESULTS: 86.1% of individuals in group 1 had normal TSH, 93.7% had normal thyroid antibodies and in 77.6% of individuals, all thyroid tests performed were normal. In the 6.9% of the group 2, all reviewed thyroid tests were normal (P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows that US is correlated with normal thyroid function tests and is a valuable tool in the prediction of normal thyroid function.

Comparison of ultrasonography features and malignancy rate of toxic and nontoxic autonomous nodules: a preliminary study.

OBJECTIVE: When a scintigraphically autonomous nodule does not produce thyroid hormones enough to suppress serum thyrotrophin, it is generally defined as nontoxic autonomous nodule. In this study, we aimed to compare clinical and ultrasonographical (US) features and cytological and histopathological results of toxic and nontoxic autonomous nodules. METHODS: Patients who underwent thyroidectomy and were evaluated with technetium-99m-pertechnetate scintigraphy preoperatively in our institution between May 2008 and December 2014 were identified from medical records. Among these, treatment naïve patients with scintigraphically autonomous thyroid nodules were chosen and classified into toxic (hyperthyroid) and nontoxic (euthyroid) groups. The demographic data, preoperative US features of the nodules, fine needle aspiration biopsy and histopathological results were analyzed. RESULTS: There were 170 (89.0%) patients with toxic and 21 (11.0%) patients with nontoxic autonomous nodules. A total of 258 scintigraphically autonomous nodules were analyzed among which 227 were clinically functional (toxic) and 31 were clinically euthyroid (nontoxic). Echogenity, texture, marginal irregularity, presence of halo and macrocalcification were similar in toxic and nontoxic autonomous nodules. Toxic autonomous nodules were significantly bigger and had a significantly higher rate of microcalcification compared to nontoxic ones (p = 0.001 and p = 0.025, respectively). There was no significant difference in terms of cytological diagnosis between toxic and nontoxic autonomous nodules (p = 0.052). Atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance cytology was significantly higher in nontoxic group (p = 0.01). 20 (8.8%) of 227 toxic and 2 (6.5%) of 31 nontoxic autonomous nodules were malignant (p = 0.59). Considering all nodules regardless of the thyroid function, 8.5% of autonomous nodules was malignant. CONCLUSION: US features and malignancy potential of nontoxic autonomous nodules resemble toxic autonomous nodules. Lower diameter suggests that they can represent a preliminary stage of toxic ones and have potential of toxicity when get bigger in size. There is still a considerable risk of malignancy risk in autonomous nodules whether toxic or not.

Evaluation of cytopathological findings in thyroid nodules with macrocalcification: macrocalcification is not innocent as it seems / Avaliação dos achados citopatológicos em nódulos tiroidianos com macrocalcificações: elas não são tão inocentes como parecem

Objective Microcalcification is strongly correlated with papillary thyroid cancer. It is not clear whether macrocalcification is associated with malignancy. In this study, we aimed to assess the result of fine needle aspiration biopsies (FNAB) of thyroid nodules with macrocalcifications. Subjects and methods We retrospectively evaluated 269 patients (907 nodules). Macrocalcifications were classified as eggshell and parenchymal macrocalcification. FNAB results were divided into four groups: benign, malignant, suspicious for malignancy, and non-diagnostic. Results There were 79.9% female and 20.1% male and mean age was 56.9 years. Macrocalcification was detected in 46.3% nodules and 53.7% nodules had no macrocalcification. Parenchymal and eggshell macrocalcification were observed in 40.5% and 5.8% nodules, respectively. Cytologically, malignant and suspicious for malignancy rates were higher in nodules with macrocalcification compared to nodules without macrocalcification (p = 0.004 and p = 0.003, respectively). Benign and non-diagnostic cytology results were similar in two groups (p > 0.05). Nodules with eggshell calcification had higher rate of suspicious for malignancy and nodules with parenchymal macrocalcification had higher rates of malignant and suspicious for malignancy compared to those without macrocalcification (p = 0.01, p = 0.003 and p = 0.007, respectively). Conclusions Our findings suggest that macrocalcifications are not always benign and are not associated with increased nondiagnostic FNAB results. Macrocalcification, particularly the parenchymal type should be taken into consideration. Arq Bras ...

Objetivo A microcalcificação está fortemente correlacionada com o câncer papilar de tiroide. Não está claro se a macrocalcificação também está associada com malignidade. Neste estudo, nosso objetivo foi avaliar o resultado da biópsia de aspiração por agulha fina (FNAB) de nódulos tiroidianos com macrocalcificações. Sujeitos e métodos Avaliamos retrospectivamente 269 pacientes (907 nódulos). As macrocalcificações foram classificadas como periféricas (casca de ovo) ou parenquimatosas (interna). Os resultados da FNAB foram divididos em quatro grupos citológicos: benignos, com malignidade, suspeita de malignidade e não diagnósticos. Resultados Das amostras, 79,9% foram coletadas de mulheres e 20,1% de homens, e a idade média foi de 56,9 anos. A macrocalcificação foi detectada em 46,3% dos nódulos, e em 53,7% dos nódulos não havia macrocalcificação. A macrocalcificação parenquimatosa e periférica foi observada em 40,5% e 5,8% dos nódulos, respectivamente. Em termos citológicos, a malignidade e suspeita de malignidade foram mais comuns em nódulos com macrocalcificação em comparação com nódulos sem macrocalcificação (p = 0,004 e p = 0,003, respectivamente). Resultados benignos e não diagnósticos da citologia foram similares em ambos os grupos (p > 0,05). Os nódulos com calcificações periféricas apresentaram uma taxa maior de suspeita de malignidade e os nódulos com macrocalcificação parenquimatosa apresentaram ...

Evaluation of postural parathyroid hormone change in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism.

Purpose. In the present study, we aimed to investigate postural change of PTH in normal individuals and in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). Methods. Twenty-two patients with PHPT and nine healthy controls were enrolled. Following 12 h of fast, patients stayed in recumbent position for an hour and PTH and total Ca measurements were performed at the 45th and 60th minutes of resting. Afterwards, the patients resumed an upright posture for an hour and again blood samples were taken at the 45th and 60th minutes of standing. Results. In the PHPT group, mean PTH was calculated as 153.9 pg/mL in the recumbent position while it was 206.3 during upright position (Δ change was 47.7) (P < 0.001). In the control group mean serum PTH was measured as 41.2 pg/mL in the recumbent position while it was 44.8 pg/mL in the upright position (Δ change was 1.7) (P = 0.11). In both groups, serum Ca was higher in the upright position compared to the recumbent position (P < 0.001). Conclusion. Postural change of serum PTH is significant only in PHPT group. Postural PTH test may give a clue to the clinician when the diagnosis of PHPT is equivocal.

Evaluation of cytopathological findings in thyroid nodules with macrocalcification: macrocalcification is not innocent as it seems.

OBJECTIVE: Microcalcification is strongly correlated with papillary thyroid cancer. It is not clear whether macrocalcification is associated with malignancy. In this study, we aimed to assess the result of fine needle aspiration biopsies (FNAB) of thyroid nodules with macrocalcifications. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 269 patients (907 nodules). Macrocalcifications were classified as eggshell and parenchymal macrocalcification. FNAB results were divided into four groups: benign, malignant, suspicious for malignancy, and non-diagnostic. RESULTS: There were 79.9% female and 20.1% male and mean age was 56.9 years. Macrocalcification was detected in 46.3% nodules and 53.7% nodules had no macrocalcification. Parenchymal and eggshell macrocalcification were observed in 40.5% and 5.8% nodules, respectively. Cytologically, malignant and suspicious for malignancy rates were higher in nodules with macrocalcification compared to nodules without macrocalcification (p = 0.004 and p = 0.003, respectively). Benign and non-diagnostic cytology results were similar in two groups (p > 0.05). Nodules with eggshell calcification had higher rate of suspicious for malignancy and nodules with parenchymal macrocalcification had higher rates of malignant and suspicious for malignancy compared to those without macrocalcification (p = 0.01, p = 0.003 and p = 0.007, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that macrocalcifications are not always benign and are not associated with increased nondiagnostic FNAB results. Macrocalcification, particularly the parenchymal type should be taken into consideration.

Are endogenously lower serum thyroid hormones new predictors for thyroid malignancy in addition to higher serum thyrotropin?

It is well known that TSH plays a major role in the secretion of thyroid hormones, maintenance of thyroid specific gene expression, and gland growth. In this study, we aimed to evaluate association between tests of thyroid functions (fT3, fT4, TSH) and differentiated thyroid carcinoma. 441 patients operated for nodular goiter between 2005 and 2008 were analyzed. Thyroid functions were studied in the period of 1-30 days prior to surgery. In postoperative histopathological examination, differentiated thyroid carcinoma and benign thyroid disease were detected in 166 (37.6%) and 275 (62.4%) patients, respectively. Patients with thyroid malignancy had significantly lower serum fT3 (P = 0.001), lower fT4 (P = 0.022), and higher TSH levels (P < 0.001) compared to patients with benign disease, although all analytes were within the normal range. We subdivided by quartile serum fT3, fT4, and TSH in normal limits into three groups. The odds ratio (ORs) for the risk of thyroid cancer with a serum TSH between 0.63 and 1.67 µIU/ml and 1.68-4.00 µIU/ml, compared with a serum TSH between 0.40 and 0.62 µIU/ml were calculated as 2.60 (95% CIs 1.49-4.54) and 6.50 (95% CIs 3.51-12.03), respectively. There was also a greater risk of thyroid cancer in patients with fT3 levels of 1.57-3.00 pg/ml, compared with patients with fT3 levels of 3.89-4.71 pg/ml (OR 2.95, 95% CIs 1.68-5.20). For fT4, OR for the risk of thyroid cancer between 0.85 and 1.17 ng/dl compared with 1.48-1.78 ng/dl was 2.14 (95% CIs 1.22-3.74). In conclusion, lower fT3, fT4, and higher TSH concentrations within normal limits were related with increased thyroid cancer independent from sex and nodule type. Particularly, the association between lower fT3, fT4 levels and a diagnosis of thyroid cancer is a novel finding.

The association between thyroid carcinoma and Hashimoto's thyroiditis: the ultrasonographic and histopathologic characteristics of malignant nodules.

BACKGROUND: Some but not all reports, particularly those of a retrospective nature, have noted an increased risk of carcinoma in thyroid nodules in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). Thyroid cancer (TC) in patients with HT, however, have been reported to have a better prognosis. In the presence of HT, the ultrasonography (US) appearance of the thyroid gland might vary greatly, making it more difficult to differentiate between benign and malignant nodules. The aim of this study was to determine if there is an association between TC and HT and to determine if the US and histopathologic characteristics of malignant nodules in patients with and without HT are similar. METHODS: Six hundred thirteen patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between 2005 and 2008 for nodular goiter were included in this study. The preoperative US characteristics and postoperative histopathologic features in patients with and without HT were compared. The diagnosis of HT was based on histopathologic features. RESULTS: Ninety-two patients had HT. The prevalence of TC in the HT patients was 45.7%. In contrast, it was 29% in patients without HT (p = 0.001). The prevalence of HT in the patients with TC was 21.8% and in patients without TC was 11.9% (p = 0.001). The rate of incidental TC, defined as TC identified during surgery or following histopathologic examination of permanent sections despite preoperative benign cytology results, was higher in patients with HT (33.3%) than in those without (13.0%) HT (p = 0.004). The US characteristics of papillary thyroid carcinoma, which included number of nodules, echogenity, echoic texture, microcalcifications, macrocalcifications, halo sign, and regularity of margins, were similar in the group with HT compared with the group without HT. When the histopathologic characteristics of papillary thyroid carcinoma in patients with and without HT were compared, again there was no significant difference. CONCLUSIONS: We suggest that there is an association between HT and TC, and HT may predispose to the development of TC. This indicates the need for close observation of neoplastic changes in patients with HT. Nevertheless, the presence of HT seems to have no effect on the US and histopathologic characteristics of malignant nodules in TC patients. This finding may indicate that evaluation of nodules and initial treatment of TC in these patients does not require different management.

Ultrasonographic evaluation of thyroid nodules: comparison of ultrasonographic, cytological, and histopathological findings.

Thyroid ultrasonography (US) and fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) are the most important tools in evaluating thyroid nodules. A total of 3,404 nodules in 2,082 cases referred to our clinic between 2005 and 2008 were analyzed retrospectively. Considering US features of nodules, risk factors predicting malignancy were: margin irregularity as the most important predictor, hypoechoic pattern and microcalcification (Odds ratios: 63.2, 13.3, 7.03, respectively). Cytologic results of the patients were as follows: 1,718 (82.5%) benign, 196 (9.4%) suspicious, 68 (3.3%) nondiagnostic, and 100 (4.8%) malignant. In histopathologic examination, we determined a malignancy rate of 7.59% (158/2082). We calculated the sensitivity of FNAB as 89.16%, specificity as 98.77%, positive predictive value as 96.10%, negative predictive value as 96.39%, and accuracy as 96.32%. In cytologic examination, the malignancy rate of subcentimetric (≤1 cm) nodules was higher than supracentimetric (>1 cm) nodules (5.1% vs. 1.5%, P = 0.001). In postoperative histopathologic examination, although the malignancy rate of subcentimetric nodules was higher than that of supracentimetric nodules, the difference was statistically insignificant (5.5%, 4.4%, respectively; P > 0.05). Cytologically diagnosed malignancy was detected in 4.5% of patients with multiple nodules, while it was present in 6% of patients with solitary nodule indicating no significant difference. However, postoperative histopathologic examination revealed a significantly higher malignancy rate in patients with solitary nodule compared to in patients with multiple nodules (11.7%, 6.5%; respectively, P < 0.001). The malignancy rate of patients operated for suspicious cytology was found to be 46.15%; for nondiagnostic cytology, it was 64.29%. In conclusion, ultrasonographically, hypoechoic pattern, microcalcification and margin irregularity of thyroid nodules are important features in determining the malignancy risk. The nodule size alone still remains inadequate to exclude malignancy risk.