MANAGEMENT OF THYROID-NODULES

Clinically apparent thyroid nodules occur in about 5 percent of the po pulation. Because most patients with thyroid nodules present initially to their primary care physician, family physicians should have a thor ough understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid nodules. The history and physical examination may be helpful in detecting thyro id nodules but are not useful in predicting malignancy. Furthermore, l aboratory studies, ultrasonography and nuclear medicine scans do not r eliably differentiate between benign and malignant thyroid nodules. In most cases, fine-needle aspiration biopsy can accurately identify mal ignant thyroid nodules. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is safe and can be performed in an office setting.