The importance of ultrasonography in nodular thyroid diseases and its application at the Ambulatory of Endocrinology of Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Ribeirão Preto

Abstract

Thyroid nodules are very common findings, especially with the advent of ultrasound. Although thyroid cancer is not common, its incidence has been increasing, especially in women and elderly. The vast majority of patients with carcinoma, progressed well when diagnosed and treated early, and the similar mortality rates to the general population. Nevertheless, some patients have relapses and others, progressing to death. So, it is important to use all necessary resources for the diagnosis of malignancy in these patients and at the same time avoiding unnecessary procedures and surgeries. In this work, we will talk specifically about the use of thyroid ultrasound and cervical region in the diagnosis and management of nodules of this gland so important for humans as well as on the main sonographic features of malignancy, needle aspiration (FNA), the use of Doppler as an auxiliary method and TIRADS system.