RESUMO
Thyroid nodules (TNs) are prevalent and found in up to 50% of individuals. While most TNs are benign, some can be malignant. The evaluation of TNs is crucial to rule out malignancy and identify those requiring surgical intervention. This study aimed to clarify the reported prevalence of TNs, focusing specifically on their various types, assessment and diagnostic processes, current evaluation methods, and evidence-based management. It also provides recommendations for follow-up. TNs are typically found during physical exams or incidentally during imaging procedures. Routine laboratory and clinical evaluations of TNs are common. Ultrasound is the preferred imaging method to determine if a TN needs a biopsy. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is crucial in deciding whether surgery or surveillance is necessary. TNs that show suspicious features on the ultrasound may require cytologic analysis to assess the risk of malignancy. The effectiveness of several supplementary molecular tests is still uncertain, although some studies report promising results. The management and treatment approach for TNs primarily depends on the results of FNA cytology and ultrasound characteristics. The optimal treatment strategy for TNs ranges from straightforward follow-ups for low-risk cases to surgical intervention for high-risk patients. Rather than adopting a uniform approach, clinicians should assess each patient on a case-by-case basis using current knowledge and a collaborative, multidisciplinary method.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris and vitiligo are skin disorders that can have a negative impact on a person's self-esteem and quality of life (QoL). The purpose of this study is to look into the impact of acne and vitiligo on the self-esteem and QoL of the patient population in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of 171 Saudi adults (141 individuals with acne vulgaris (9.4%) and 30 with vitiligo (1.5%) between the ages of 16 and 35 was conducted in Madinah. A self-reported questionnaire with four domains was used: socio-demographic data, lifestyle and coexisting pathologic factors or diseases, Rosenberg's self-esteem scale, and the dermatology life quality index (DLQI). RESULTS: Acne patients had a mean total score of 20.3 on the self-esteem scale, with 5% (n = 7) having low self-esteem, 48.2% (n = 68) having medium self-esteem, and 46.8% (n = 66) having high self-esteem. Females had higher self-esteem (75.29) than males (56.95). The mean DLQI score for acne patients was 5.4, with 30.5% (n = 47) unaffected, 29.1% (n = 45) mildly affected, 23.4% (n = 35) moderately affected, 5.6% (n = 10) severely affected, and 1.4% (n = 4) severely affected. Vitiligo patients had a mean self-esteem scale score of 13.7, with 63.3% (n = 19) having low self-esteem, 30% (n = 9) having medium self-esteem, and 6.7% (n = 2) having high self-esteem. The mean DLQI was 15.2, with 6.7% (n = 2) reporting that vitiligo had no effect on their lives, 10% (n = 3) reporting a moderate effect, 66.7% (n = 20) reporting a severe effect, and 16.7% (n = 5) reporting a very severe effect. CONCLUSIONS: Our research confirms that acne vulgaris and vitiligo have a negative impact on self-esteem and quality of life. Along with medical treatment, effective treatment and psychological improvement of the patient should be prioritized.