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Fine-needle biopsy cytology in autoimmune thyroiditis
1Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Gr. T. Popa, Iasi.
Summary
Fine-needle biopsy aids in diagnosing thyroid nodules and malignant lesions. This minimally invasive technique helps identify autoimmune thyroiditis, potentially reducing the need for surgery.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Thyroid nodules are common, affecting 4-7% of the population.
- Differential diagnosis of thyroid lesions is crucial for appropriate management.
- Fine-needle biopsy (FNB) is a key diagnostic tool in thyroid pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of fine-needle biopsy in diagnosing thyroiditis, particularly autoimmune thyroiditis.
- To assess the cytological findings in fine-needle biopsy smears from patients with thyroiditis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 59 thyroiditis cases.
- Fine-needle biopsy performed on 12 selected cases (large goiters, nodules >1 cm).
- Smears stained using the May-Grünwald-Giemsa technique.
Main Results:
- Fine-needle biopsy was feasible in 12 cases.
- Lymphocytes and macrophages were observed in 9 out of 12 smears.
- These cells are characteristic of infiltrates in autoimmune thyroiditis, with occasional normal thyrocytes.
Conclusions:
- Fine-needle biopsy is valuable in the diagnostic algorithm for thyroid nodules.
- Cytological examination can identify key inflammatory cells indicative of autoimmune thyroiditis.
- FNB can help reduce unnecessary surgical interventions for benign thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis.