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Published on: November 10, 2014
Thyroid incidentalomas. Prevalence by palpation and ultrasonography
1Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, University of California-Los Angeles School of Medicine.
Archives of Internal Medicine
|August 22, 1994
Summary
Thyroid nodules are common incidental findings, with ultrasonography detecting them more frequently than palpation. This highlights the need for a conservative approach when discovering these abnormalities during other medical investigations.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Thyroid nodules are frequently found during autopsies.
- Limited data exists on incidental thyroid nodule detection during investigations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of thyroid nodules in asymptomatic North American individuals.
- To compare palpation findings with high-resolution ultrasonography results.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study design.
- Inclusion of asymptomatic North American subjects.
- Comparison of physical palpation with high-resolution ultrasonography.
Main Results:
- Palpable nodules found in 21% of subjects; ultrasonography revealed nodules in 67%.
- Nodule prevalence was higher in women (72%) than men (41%).
- Ultrasound and palpation showed a 49% concordance rate.
Conclusions:
- Thyroid abnormalities are common incidental findings.
- A conservative management strategy is recommended for incidentally discovered thyroid lesions.
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