Protocolo del servicio de endocrinología del Instituto Autónomo Hospital Universitario de Los Andes

Prevalence of thyroid nodules found by routine medical exam is 2-7% and by ultrasound 19-76%. Their incidence increases in women, ageing, after radiation exposure and in locations of iodine deficiency. The importance of studying thyroid nodules is to exclude cancer. Therefore, all nodules >1cm must be evaluated. However, nodules <1cm will be suspicious when they are associated with risk factors or there are ultrasound findings suggestive of malignancy. The nodules classification by ultrasound (TIRADS) based on echogenicity, calcifications, irrigation and nodule structure is used to determine when to perform a fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Currently, study of cells obtained by FNAB is the best method to distinguish between benign and malignant nodules. Treatment for benign nodules is follow up by physical and ultrasound examination, and repeat FNAB if nodule size increases. Treatment for all malignant nodules is surgery, total thyroidectomy is recommended. We present the guidelines for the diagnostic and management of patients with thyroid nodules in the Endocrinology Department of IAHULA.