Role of fine needle aspiration cytology in diagnosis of solitary thyroid nodule

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate usefulness of the FNAC in diagnosing solitary thyroid nodule. Methods: This Interventional study was carried out in the Department of General Surgery, Multan Medical & Dental College/Ibn-e-Siena Hospital & Research Institute, Multan, from July 2010 to December 2013. A total of 100 patients were included in the study. Results: Majority of the patients i.e., 40(66.7%) patients were between the 21-40 years. Of the iagnostic60 patients, 10(16.7%) patients were male while 50(83.3%) patients were female. Thirty five (58.3%) patients belonged to district Multan while 10(16.7%) patients were residents of district Muzaffargarh. Mild pain was noted in 6(10%) patients 3(5%) patients had change in voice and 3 (5%) patients had palpitation. Thirty patients (50%) presented within one year of the start of their disease. Right lobe of the thyroid gland harboured swelling in 45 patients (75%). Only 3 patients (5%) were diagnosed as papillary carcinoma. Conclusion: Cold thyroid nodule is a common problem and has gained much significance due to its potential for malignancy.