Diagnostic value of fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of solitary thyroid nodule

ABSTRACT

To evaluate usefulness of the FNAC in diagnosing solitary thyroid nodule. Interventional study. This study was carried out in the Department of General Surgery, Nishtar Medical College, Multan from January 2010 to July 2010. A total of 100 patients were included in the study. Majority of the patients i.e. 40 [66.7%] patients were between the 21-40 years. Of the 60 patients, 10 [16.7%] patients were male while 50 [83.3%] patients were female. Thirty five [58.3%] patients belonged to district Multan while 10 [16.7%] patients were residents of district Muzaffargarh. Mild pain was noted in 6 [10%] patients 3 [5%] patients had change in voice and 3 [5%] patients had palpitation. Thirty patients [50%] presented within one year of the start of their disease. Right lobe of the thyroid gland harboured swelling in 45 patients [75%]. Only 3 patients [5%] were diagnosed as papillary carcinoma. Cold thyroid nodule is a common problem and has gained much significance due to its potential for malignancy