Management of benign thyroid nodules based on the findings of fine-needle aspiration

Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is a safe, simple, and inexpensive proc edure that is particularly applicable for lesions of the head and neck. In our department, it is widely used for the evaluation of thyroid nodules. A total of 189 patients participated in a prospective study of benign thyroid nodules. Our aim was to verify the modality of treatment used in our depar tment and the reliability of benign cytologic results of colloid goiter. Al l patients had cold nodules on thyroid scanning. The patients were divided into two groups, the first comprising 93 patients who did not undergo thyro id surgery and were followed up for 5 to 11 years. One case of malignancy w as found in this group during the follow-up. The second group was comprised of 96 patients who were operated on despite FNA results of colloid goiter. Among them, five cases of malignancy were found. Four of these five cases could not be regarded as FNA failure. Our study confirms that the combinati on of clinical findings with those of the FNA is a reliable approach to the management of benign thyroid nodules. Nevertheless, longterm follow-up is mandatory and repetitive aspirations should be considered.