Relationship Between Thyroid Hormonal Function and Ultrasound TI-RADS Stratification in a Saudi Cohort

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Radiology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Thyroid disorders are common endocrine diseases with increasing incidence.
• Early detection of thyroid dysfunction and structural abnormalities is crucial for preventing complications.
• Investigating the relationship between thyroid function tests and ultrasound findings is essential for accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the correlation between thyroid function tests (TSH, FT4) and ultrasound-based thyroid nodule classification (ACR TI-RADS).
• To assess the association between clinical variables, thyroid function, and ultrasound findings in patients with thyroid abnormalities.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cross-sectional study of 102 patients in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
• Thyroid ultrasound with ACR TI-RADS classification and thyroid function tests (TSH, FT4) performed within two weeks.
• Statistical analysis to determine associations between hormone levels, TI-RADS, and clinical factors (e.g., BMI).

Main Results:

• Most participants were female, overweight (mean BMI 30.2), and euthyroid or subclinically hypothyroid.
• Thyroid nodules were predominantly benign (TI-RADS 2-3).
• Body Mass Index (BMI) showed a moderate positive correlation with TSH and a negative correlation with FT4 (p < 0.05); no significant association was found between TI-RADS and thyroid hormone levels (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound-detected structural thyroid changes appear independent of hormonal status.
• BMI has a modest physiological link with thyroid function (TSH/FT4 levels).
• Integrated biochemical and imaging evaluation is recommended for enhanced diagnostic precision in thyroid disease assessment.