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Accuracy of pathologic diagnosis in thyroid lesions
J C Irish1, A W van Nostrand, S L Asa
1Department of Otolaryngology, Toronto Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|September 1, 1992
Summary
This study compared diagnostic accuracy for thyroid nodules. Final paraffin sections showed the highest accuracy (94%), outperforming fine-needle biopsy (81%) and frozen sections (87%).
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Surgical Oncology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Fine-needle biopsy is widely used for thyroid mass management.
- Limited data exists on the diagnostic accuracy of intraoperative frozen sections and final paraffin sections for thyroid lesions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the diagnostic accuracy of fine-needle biopsy, frozen section, and final paraffin section for thyroid lesions.
- To evaluate the utility of intraoperative pathology consultation in thyroidectomy procedures.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 137 thyroidectomy patients.
- Recorded diagnostic accuracy for fine-needle biopsy, frozen section, paraffin section, and panel review.
- Statistical analysis of accuracy rates for each modality.
Main Results:
- Overall diagnostic accuracy: Fine-needle biopsy 81%, Frozen section 87%, Paraffin section 94%.
- High positive predictive value and specificity for fine-needle biopsy and frozen section.
- Paraffin section demonstrated superior accuracy in diagnosing thyroid lesions.
Conclusions:
- Final paraffin section offers the highest diagnostic accuracy for thyroid lesions.
- Intraoperative frozen section and preoperative fine-needle biopsy provide valuable diagnostic information, especially when positive for malignancy.
- Accuracy data can inform strategies for optimal thyroid nodule management.