[The role of fine needle aspiration biopsy in differentiated thyroid carcinoma].

Unlabelled: Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) in evaluation of nodular goiter generated a true revolution. It is generally assumed that the use of FNAB reduces the number of surgical procedures by 50%, while doubles the proportion of carcinoma in surgically treated patients. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the utility of FNAB in preoperative diagnosis of thyroid carcinoma.

Material And Method: We have investigated 3240 patients with nodular goiter by FNAB (MGG stain and morphometrical analysis), followed by morphological examination in those who underwent surgery.

Results: Globally, FNAB had a good sensitivity (77%) and specificity (95%), which made an accuracy of 92%, proving its diagnostic value. In follicular carcinoma (FC), where the cytological diagnostic cannot be certain, morphometry helped the diagnostic: mean cells diameter was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in FC (9.5 mm) vs. thyroid adenoma (8.6 mm).

Conclusion: With good statistical value, FNAB remain a useful preoperative diagnostic method.