Fine-needle aspiration cytology of thyroid nodules: how useful is it?

Background: Thyroid nodules are common and the principal method of diagnosis is fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC).

Methods: To determine the value of FNAC in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules, thyroid cytology of 253 patients with definitive histology after surgery was analyzed from 1992 to 2002. FNAC was correlated with histology and the sensitivity, specificity and likelihood ratios were calculated.

Fine needle aspiration in the management of benign thyroid cysts.

Background: Resolution of cystic thyroid lesions after aspiration occurs in 8-45% of cases, the remainder require treatment for residual tumour or recurrent cysts. The aim of this study was to identify patient characteristics that predict cyst recurrence to enable these patients to undergo early surgery.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of 123 patients with benign thyroid cysts that were suitable for conservative management was undertaken.

Impact of core biopsy on the management of screen-detected ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast.

Background: Screen-detected ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) usually presents as clinically impalpable microcalcification. Although core biopsy is well established as a diagnostic modality for invasive breast cancers, few reports address its impact on the management of screen-detected DCIS. We examined the sensitivity of core biopsy in diagnosing screen-detected DCIS, as well as its role in facilitating one-step surgery in the community, especially a breast-conserving approach.

Does frozen section have a role in the intraoperative management of thyroid nodules?

Background: Frozen section in thyroid surgery is used to make an intraoperative pathological diagnosis of malignancy in a thyroid nodule at the time of hemithyroidectomy. A positive diagnosis allows completion of thyroidectomy, thus avoiding reoperation. However, the use of fine needle aspiration cytology in making a preoperative diagnosis of cancer has resulted in the lack of a defined role for frozen section.