Current Diagnosis and Management of Thyroid Nodules

This chapter outlines guidelines for the diagnosis and management of thyroid nodules. Although most thyroid nodules are benign and asymptomatic, a small percentage are malignant, autonomously functioning or cause symptoms. The goal of thyroid nodule management is to identify this subset of patients, present all viable options to them, and decide on an individualized treatment plan that meets their needs. Clinical evaluation includes laboratory testing, and imaging, particularly ultrasonography. Management options range from monitoring low risk nodules to employing medical, surgical, or ablative treatments for clinically significant thyroid nodules.