Evaluation and Management of Thyroid Nodules

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Identified in the gap analysis, thyroid nodule evaluation and diagnosis is a multi-step, multi-specialty approach. Patients may present to any otolaryngologist with a neck mass or with symptoms secondary to an underlying neck mass and knowledge of the diagnosis and treatment is core to the training of an otolaryngologist. New guidelines from the American Thyroid Association will also hopefully be published in time for the Academy meeting this fall. This will be a case based presentation of basic principles and will take learners from presentation to discussion of treatment options.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Attendees should be able to identify the symptoms of hypo and hyper thyroidism and the physical exam steps necessary for evaluation of thyroid nodules.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Attendees should be able to identify diagnostic tests necessary for workup of thyroid nodules and interpret ultrasound and thyroid uptake scans as well as interpret thyroid function testing.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Attendees should be able to interpret FNA cytology and describe evidence-based treatment option recommendations for various scenarios including toxic, indeterminate, benign, and cancerous nodules.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Thyroid nodules present common neck masses evaluated by otolaryngologists and may cause several otolaryngologic complaints such as globus, dysphagia, and voice changes. Knowledge of evidence based guidelines for diagnosis is important for all otolaryngologists.

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement :