Distribution patterns of microcalcifications in suspected thyroid carcinoma: a classification method helpful for diagnosis.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the distribution patterns of microcalcifications in thyroid cancers with benign cases.

Methods: In total, 358 patients having microcalcifications on ultrasonography were analysed. Microcalcifications were categorised according to the distribution patterns: (I) microcalcifications inside one (a) or more (b) suspected nodules, (II) microcalcifications not only inside but also surrounding a suspected single (a) or multiple (b) nodules, and (III) focal (a) or diffuse (b) microcalcifications in the absence of any suspected nodule.