Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of a thyroid nodule (1–2 nodules)

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the thyroid gland is a minimally invasive procedure used for the diagnosis and evaluation of thyroid nodules. It is performed by inserting a thin needle into the nodule area under ultrasound guidance or by palpation, followed by the extraction of cells for subsequent microscopic analysis.

FNA is a valuable diagnostic tool for detecting both benign and malignant changes in the thyroid gland. It helps differentiate harmless nodules from potentially dangerous ones, allowing informed decisions regarding further treatment or monitoring.

FNA is a safe and effective procedure that provides valuable information about the condition of the thyroid gland without the need for surgical intervention. It is widely used in clinical practice for diagnosing thyroid disorders and determining appropriate treatment strategies.

Role

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the thyroid gland is an important diagnostic procedure used to detect pathological changes in the thyroid. It allows for the collection of cell samples from nodules or areas of induration within the thyroid gland for subsequent cytological analysis.

Indications

• Diagnosis of thyroid nodules detected by palpation or imaging methods (ultrasound, CT, MRI).
• Evaluation of thyroid enlargement or indurations of unknown origin.
• Differential diagnosis between benign and malignant thyroid lesions.
• Monitoring structural changes of the thyroid gland in conditions such as autoimmune thyroiditis or after radiation exposure.

Procedure

Before performing FNA, the physician conducts an ultrasound examination to localize and assess thyroid nodules. Then, under local anesthesia, a fine needle is inserted into the nodule, and cells are aspirated using a vacuum device for analysis. The procedure is relatively painless and is performed on an outpatient basis, without general anesthesia. FNA is usually carried out under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate sampling.

Sources:

https://radiopaedia.org/articles/ultrasound-guided-fna-of-the-thyroid?lang=us
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK285544/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2731861/
https://radiology.ucsf.edu/ultrasound-guided-fine-needle-aspiration

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or a flare-up of a condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing and treatment. Only a qualified specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. Different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.