CHANGING CONCEPTS IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF THYROID-NODULES

Thyroid nodules are extremely common, affecting from 4% to 7% of the p opulation. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is the most accurate and cost -effective technique for nodule diagnosis. It is simple, safe, and sho uld be the first test used in patient work-up. Routine thyroxine (T-4) suppressive therapy is no longer recommended for cytologically benign nodules. T-4 suppression can cause or aggravate osteoporosis, especia lly in postmenopausal women. New data on T-4 suppressive therapy, cost analysis, and nodule guidelines are reviewed.