Thyroid nodules cellular and biochemical markers for malignancy

Abstract

Although the majority of histologic specimens obtained by fine-needle aspiration (FNA) yield a definitive diagnosis, 10-30% are deemed indeterminate. Generally, surgery is recommended for these patients, as up to one quarter of these nodules are found to be malignant. Notwithstanding that concern, 75% of patients with a benign nodule undergo an unnecessary procedure. In an effort to reduce these potentially avoidable surgeries, a number of biochemical and molecular markers have been developed to assist in the discernment of benign from malignant nodules. © 2006 Humana Press Inc.