Knowledge Gaps in Patients Undergoing Thyroid Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy

Fine-needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) is the most accurate diagnostic method to assess the malignancy risk of thyroid nodules. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge among patients regarding thyroid FNAB and its outcomes and to explore how this knowledge correlates with their sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

In a cross-sectional study at a tertiary healthcare facility's endocrinology and metabolism outpatient clinic, participants who had undergone their first thyroid FNAB and attended the clinic to review their results were included. Data collection encompassed demographic information, clinical history, and sonographic features of thyroid nodules. Patient knowledge was assessed using a 6-item questionnaire that evaluated awareness of the indications for thyroid FNAB, potential diagnostic outcomes, and the likelihood of a repeat biopsy.

A total of 423 patients participated in this study, with the majority being female (83.7%). The median age was 54 years. The indication for the biopsy was correctly identified by 68.5% of participants. Awareness of the potential for benign (85.1%) and malignant (84.6%) results was high. However, only 20.4% were informed about non-diagnostic outcomes and 16.6% about indeterminate results. Furthermore, 34.1% understood the need for a repeat biopsy. Participants under 65 years of age demonstrated significantly higher knowledge regarding the reason for the biopsy and the potential for benign or malignant results (p < 0.001). Participants with at least a high school education (38.1%) were more knowledgeable about all aspects of FNAB compared to those with lower educational levels (p < 0.05). Patients with a history of non-thyroidal malignancy (5.7%) demonstrated significantly greater understanding of non-diagnostic and indeterminate results (p < 0.001).

The study reveals substantial knowledge gaps, particularly in understanding thyroid FNAB and its outcomes. Thus, targeted educational interventions are necessary to enhance patient comprehension and improve clinical outcomes.