Accuracy of the clinical assessment of thyroid size

A number of clinical decisions regarding treatment of thyroid diseases are influenced by the evaluation of thyroid size. In order to evaluate the accuracy of clinically estimated thyroid size, two experienced specialists in endocrinology and two junior doctors independently examined 53 patients. The ultrasonically-determined size was used as standard. An average error of 39% (range 0-566%) was demonstrated, the experienced doctors being more accurate than the younger ones. No relation was found between type of gland and accuracy of clinical estimation. In conclusion, palpation of the thyroid should not be used when an accurate size evaluation is considered of importance, e.g. in the estimation of radioiodine dose.