The Role of Imaging in Thyroid Nodule Management: A Systematic Review of Emerging Technologies

Sunday, October 12, 2025

3:06 PM - 3:12 PM EDT

Location: 128

Introduction: Thyroid nodules are common clinical findings, with the challenge of distinguishing benign from malignant nodules often requiring fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Advances in imaging technologies, such as elastography, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven ultrasound, and molecular imaging, offer promising alternatives or adjuncts to traditional diagnostic methods. This review consolidates evidence on the utility of these innovations in thyroid nodule management.

Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases was performed for studies published between 2000 and 2024. Python was employed for data extraction and deduplication, while R facilitated meta-analysis and visualization of diagnostic performance metrics. Outcomes assessed included sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic accuracy, and impact on FNAB rates.

Results: Of 132 studies screened, 58 met the inclusion criteria. AI-driven ultrasound models showed a pooled sensitivity and specificity of 91% and 88%, respectively, in identifying malignancy (p < 0.001). Shear wave elastography improved diagnostic accuracy, particularly in indeterminate nodules, with a pooled area under the curve (AUC) of 0.89. Molecular imaging with PET/CT demonstrated utility in high-risk cases but had limited widespread applicability due to cost. Emerging technologies reduced unnecessary FNAB rates by 20%-35% in selected patient populations.

Conclusions: Emerging imaging technologies significantly enhance thyroid nodule evaluation, improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing invasive procedures. Integration of these modalities into clinical practice could optimize patient management, but cost-effectiveness and accessibility require further investigation.

Presenting Author(s)

MF

Mohamed Farghaly

Doctor
Newgiza University
Greensboro, North Carolina, United States

Disclosure information not submitted.

Senior Author(s)

ME

Mahmoud M. Elsayed, MD

Neurosurgery Resident and Clinical Researcher
MME Foundation
Mansoura, Egypt

Disclosure information not submitted.

Co-Author(s)

NA

Nahed Ali, n/a

MME Foundation, United States

Disclosure information not submitted.
Mohamed K. Abouzaid, N/a

Medical Intern
Newgiza University
Nasr city, Al Qahirah, Egypt

Disclosure information not submitted.
Mohamed I. Abouelseoud

Medical Intern
Newgiza University
Shorouk, Al Qahirah, Egypt

Disclosure information not submitted.
SE

Salma Elsenbawy, n/a

Newgiza University, United States

Disclosure information not submitted.
FH

Farah Hassan, n/a

Newgiza University, United States

Disclosure information not submitted.
MM

Monica Medhat, n/a

Newgiza University, United States

Disclosure information not submitted.
MA

Mai Abouzaid

Medical intern
Newgiza University
Cairo, Egypt

Disclosure information not submitted.
Yara Hamdi, Mrs

Undergraduate student
Badr University in Cairo
Houston , Texas, United States

Disclosure(s):
faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.