Management of thyroid nodules

Abstract

These Belgian guidelines for ENT surgeons about thyroid nodules were elaborated in the light of personal practical experience and the recent advances in diagnosis and management described in the literature. Thyroid nodules are a common finding, particularly in women and in areas of iodine depletion. The prevalence in the general population averages 3 to 7% on palpation and almost 50% on ultrasound. The major difficulty facing the clinician is how best to assess and manage these thyroid nodules. The authors have attempted to simplify the assessment of thyroid nodules, to classify them, and to present the most common current therapeutic management options.