Abstract

The early detection and accurate characterization of thyroid nodules have become crucial due to the rising incidence of thyroid cancer. High-resolution ultrasonography (HRUS) is a valuable diagnostic tool in assessing thyroid nodules. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of HRUS in the assessment of thyroid nodules and its pathological correlation. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 300 patients presenting with thyroid nodules. All participants underwent HRUS examination, and features like echogenicity, vascularity, margins, calcifications, and shape were noted. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) or surgical biopsy was performed based on HRUS findings. The HRUS results were then correlated with pathological findings to determine its diagnostic accuracy. Results: Out of the 300 nodules examined, 210 (70%) were benign, and 90 (30%) were malignant based on pathological evaluation. HRUS showed an overall sensitivity of 92%, specificity of 86%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 80%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 95%. Irregular margins, microcalcifications, hypoechogenicity, and taller-than-wide shape were significantly associated with malignant nodules. Conclusion: HRUS serves as a reliable diagnostic tool for evaluating thyroid nodules. Its high sensitivity and specificity, along with its non-invasive nature, make it a primary choice in thyroid nodule assessment. A combination of HRUS findings and pathological confirmation provides an integrated approach to the management of patients with thyroid nodules.

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