A Reappraisal of Suspicious Sonographic Features of Thyroid Nodules: Shape Is Not an Independent Predictor of Malignancy
Authors' conclusion
We identified the key suspicious features of thyroid nodules and provided a simplified definition of some debated ones. Malignancy rate increases with number of features.
Study context
- Population
- Patients consecutively referred for fine-needle aspiration cytology of a thyroid nodule to a single thyroid nodule referral center, November 2015–March 2020903 nodules
- Participants
- 852 participants
- Outcome
- Gray-scale sonographic features independently associated with malignancy (histologic or cytologic reference standard)
Methodological detailsprospective, single-centre, consecutive enrolment, Each nodule examined by 2 experienced clinicians using a rating form
- Prospective
- Single-centre
- Consecutive enrolment
- Each nodule examined by 2 experienced clinicians using a rating form
Performance
As reported in the abstract
Independent predictors of malignancy (multivariable model)
- Suspicious lymph node, diagnostic odds ratios (DOR)
- 16.23
- Extrathyroidal extension, DOR
- 6.60
- Irregular or infiltrative margins, DOR
- 7.13
- Marked hypoechogenicity, DOR
- 3.16
- Solid composition, DOR
- 3.61
- Punctate hyperechoic foci (incl. microcalcifications and indeterminate foci), DOR
- 2.69
Further findings
- Malignant nodules
- 76 (8.4%)
Original publication
A Reappraisal of Suspicious Sonographic Features of Thyroid Nodules: Shape Is Not an Independent Predictor of Malignancy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Published 22 February 2023. doi:10.
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