文摘
Thyroid nodules constitute by far the most common disorder of the endocrine system, as by the age of 60 years about 50% of the general population is considered to present at least one. Hosting of a thyroid carcinoma is the most worrisome, although not so common (7–15%), clinical implication. The endocrinologist facing a thyroid nodule has to answer two main clinical questions: (i) the possibility of thyroid hormonal excess (hyperthyroidism) and (ii) the risk of malignancy. TSH measurement, thyroid US and FNAC constitute the cornerstones of the diagnostic algorithm. The answers to these two questions will guide management, which can vary from simple follow-up to surgical resection.