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Goiter refers to an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland that may appear as a diffuse goiter (uniform enlargement) or nodular (single or multiple nodules). Functionally, it is classified as nontoxic (normal/low hormone levels) or toxic (excess hormone production).PathophysiologyDiffuse thyroid enlargement typically results from prolonged stimulation by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) or TSH-like agents, commonly seen in hypothyroidism or iodine deficiency. In contrast, in hyperthyroid...

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The Thyroid Gland

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A Swin Transformer-Based Model for Thyroid Nodule Detection in Ultrasound Images

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Published on: April 21, 2023

Thyroid nodules.

¹Hawaii Island Family Medicine Residency, Hilo, HI 96720, USA. mknox@hhsc.org

American Family Physician

|August 14, 2013

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Thyroid nodules are common, with a low cancer risk. Diagnosis relies on imaging and biopsy, especially for suspicious or large nodules, while smaller benign ones can be monitored.

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Area of Science:

Endocrinology
Oncology
Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

Thyroid nodules are frequently detected in the general population.
While most nodules are benign, malignancy is a primary concern driving diagnostic evaluation.
Symptoms like neck pressure can occur, but many nodules are incidental findings.

Purpose of the Study:

To outline the diagnostic approach for thyroid nodules.
To define criteria for biopsy and follow-up of thyroid nodules.
To address specific considerations for thyroid nodules in pregnant women and children.

Main Methods:

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) measurement to assess thyroid function.
Ultrasonography for nodule characterization.
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy for cytological evaluation.
Biopsy guidelines based on nodule size and suspicious features.

Main Results:

TSH levels help identify hyperfunctioning thyroid conditions.
Ultrasonography and FNA are key diagnostic tools for non-hyperfunctioning nodules.
Biopsy is recommended for nodules >1 cm, those with malignant features, or in patients with risk factors.
Smaller benign nodules may be monitored, with reevaluation if growth occurs.

Conclusions:

The diagnostic workup for thyroid nodules involves TSH, ultrasound, and FNA.
Biopsy decisions are guided by size, imaging characteristics, and patient risk factors.
Management of thyroid nodules in pregnant women mirrors that in non-pregnant adults, while children require more aggressive approaches due to higher malignancy rates and lower FNA accuracy.