Role of core needle biopsy and ultrasonographic finding in management of indeterminate thyroid nodules.

BACKGROUND

Thyroid fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is used as a screening test of choice for evaluation of thyroid nodules. However, approximately 15% to 25% of the cases are classified as indeterminate, posing dilemmas in decision-making. This study was designed to compare the diagnostic performances of second FNA and core needle biopsy of indeterminate nodules by initial FNA.

METHODS

From February 2005 through June 2009, 258 patients who completed scheduled follow-ups were enrolled and the follow-up results were analyzed.

RESULTS

Nondiagnostic results were obtained in 41.8% of the second FNA group and in 1.7% of the core needle biopsy group (p < .001; chi-square). The nodules that show borderline features in preoperative ultrasonography had a malignancy rate of 18.3% and could be identified successfully with core needle biopsy.

CONCLUSION

Core needle biopsy is a better method for evaluating indeterminate nodules by initial FNA than second FNA, especially in patients with ultrasonographic findings of a borderline nodule.