Assessment of Repeat Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) to Detect Thyroid Cancer

Plain-language summary

Thyroid nodules are common (prevalence of 12.7% in women), but are malignant in only 5% of cases. International experts agree that a preliminary cytological examination by fine needle aspiration (FNA) is required. The management of patients with cytological results consistent with malignant or suspicious for malignancy nodules is well codified and generally involves surgery. However, there is no consensus concerning 1) the utility of a second FNA during the monitoring of benign nodules. Certain studies have recommended a second FNA, whereas others have recommended ultrasound monitoring alone; 2) the contribution of ultrasound criteria to the decision as to whether to carry out a second FNA, particularly if the nodule increases in size; 3) the management of nodules classified as doubtful or suspect on needle biopsy, many of which prove to be benign (20 to 30% are malignant), raising questions about the utility of systematic thyroid surgery or the justification for a second FNA; 4) the management of patients with non significant (NS) findings on FNA, for whom immediate surgery, monitoring or a second FNA may be recommended and 5) the procedure to be followed for nodules present in patients with multinodular thyroid disease.

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