Management of thyroid nodules in adults

Thyroid nodule is an abnormal growth of thyroid cells that form a lump in the thyroid gland. The prevalence rate is dependent on the mode of diagnosis and increases with use of ultrasound. A thyroid nodule may be either single or multiple and the majority are asymptomatic and benign in nature. The clinical features of thyrotoxicosis are seen in those with a toxic thyroid nodule. Thyroid ultrasound is the imaging of choice for assessing the location, numbers, and size of the thyroid nodules and also the background of thyroid parenchyma. Ultrasound elastography, fine needle aspiration biopsy and molecular tests further aid in diagnosis and planning of treatment. Surgical excision is the therapeutic intervention of choice.