Cytodiagnostic Accuracy of Hashimoto Thyroiditis

Correlation of Cytology With Clinical, Biochemical, Serologic, and Sonographic Parameters

Abstract

The diagnosis of Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT), especially in a nodular goiter, can be challenging. This study was performed to determine the accuracy of cytologic interpretation in the diagnosis of the disease. HT was suggested in fine needle aspiration biopsies (FNA), obtained from 109 patients. These features were correlated with the results of serologic and thyroid function tests, and with sonographic data. Repeated FNA was performed in 42 patients. Hypothyroidism was diagnosed in 54 (49.5%) and hyperthyroidism in 7 patients (6.4%). Thyroid autoantibodies-thyroid peroxidase >100 were detected in 49 (45%) and antithyroglobulin antibodies >400 in 20 patients (18%). Chronic thyroiditis was suggested by ultrasonography in 4 patients (4.2%). In 109 aspirates, HT was diagnosed in 56 (51.3%) based on elevated titer of thyroid peroxidase and/or antithyroglobulin autoantibodies. We conclude that the cytodiagnosis of HT, especially when a single thyroid nodule is present, is difficult. FNA is unwarranted if the diagnosis can be made on clinical and serological grounds.