Chronic granulomatous lesions after thyroidectomy: imaging findings

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer.
• Thyroidectomy is a standard treatment for DTC.
• Late complications after surgery can mimic recurrence or other pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the imaging characteristics of granulomatous inflammation.
• To highlight its presentation as a late complication post-thyroidectomy for DTC.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI, PET).
• Correlation with clinical findings and histopathological results.
• Description of characteristic imaging features.

Main Results:

• Granulomatous inflammation presented as a palpable mass in the operative bed.
• Sonographic findings included poorly defined hypoechoic lesions with central echogenic foci.
• CT and MRI showed complex cystic masses; PET revealed increased activity.

Conclusions:

• Granulomatous inflammation is a potential late complication after thyroidectomy for DTC.
• Specific imaging features can suggest the diagnosis.
• Percutaneous biopsy is crucial for definitive diagnosis and excluding malignancy or infection.