Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Thyroid nodules are common clinical findings, with a significant proportion detected incidentally during ultrasound examinations. The differentiation between benign and malignant nodules is crucial for appropriate management. To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound in diagnosing thyroid nodules through a cross‐sectional analysis. This study included 200 patients who underwent thyroid ultrasound followed by fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) or surgical histopathology for confirmation. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of ultrasound characteristics were calculated. Ultrasound showed a sensitivity of 60% and a specificity of 80% in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules. Specific ultrasound features, such as micro‐calcifications, irregular margins, taller‐than‐wide shape and hypoechogenicity, were significantly associated with malignancy. Ultrasound is a valuable tool in the initial evaluation of thyroid nodules, offering high sensitivity and specificity. However, its diagnostic accuracy can be influenced by the experience of the radiologist and the ultrasound equipment used.
How to cite this article:
N. Purushothama Raju, M. T. Lakshmeesha and M. Vikas. The Role of Ultrasound in Diagnosing Thyroid Nodules: A Cross‐Sectional Analysis of Sensitivity
and Specificity.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2024.5.215.219
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2024.5.215.219