Fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid

This article describes contemporary understanding of fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the thyroid gland, with particular reference to its triage role in the investigation of thyroid nodules. A team approach involving the pathologist and the clinician is crucial for its success. A nonsuction te...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Canadian Medical Association journal 2002-09, Vol.167 (5), p.491-495
Main Author: Suen, Kenneth C
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Alcohol
Biopsy
Biopsy, Needle - adverse effects
Biopsy, Needle - instrumentation
Biopsy, Needle - methods
Cancer
Diagnostic tests
Emergency medical care
Hematoma
Humans
Patients
Review
Suctioning
Thyroid gland
Thyroid Nodule - diagnosis
Thyroid Nodule - pathology
Tumors
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:This article describes contemporary understanding of fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the thyroid gland, with particular reference to its triage role in the investigation of thyroid nodules. A team approach involving the pathologist and the clinician is crucial for its success. A nonsuction technique with a 25- or 27-gauge needle is recommended. Performance of FNA biopsy by physicians with faulty technique and interpretation of FNA specimens by pathologists without proper training are detrimental to patient outcome. These problems may lead to a high failure rate, which in turn might discourage use of FNA biopsy and could lead to use of other diagnostic methods that are more expensive or are associated with greater morbidity (or both). The size of the nodule may be important in determining the need for surgery in some patients. Decisions regarding surgery that are based on the size of the nodule and the specific cytologic features are discussed. A standardized terminology for reporting is proposed.
ISSN:0008-4409
0820-3946
1488-2329