Ultrasound of the thyroid gland TI-RADS

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Thyroid ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging examination used to assess the structure, size and appearance of the thyroid gland, as well as to detect nodules and other changes in the thyroid tissue.

TI-RADS assessment allows thyroid nodules to be characterized based on standardized ultrasound criteria, such as composition, echogenicity, shape, margins and the presence of echogenic foci. Based on these characteristics, nodules are assigned to a specific risk category, which helps determine further management — ultrasound follow-up or, when indicated, fine-needle aspiration (FNA).

Indications

• evaluation of thyroid nodules detected during a clinical examination or previous imaging studies;
• suspected thyroid nodules or other thyroid lesions;
• enlargement or changes in the shape of the thyroid gland;
• a sensation of pressure or discomfort in the neck;
• difficulty swallowing or a sensation of a foreign body in the throat;
• monitoring of previously diagnosed thyroid nodules;
• evaluation of changes detected during previous ultrasound examinations;
• follow-up after treatment of thyroid disorders, as recommended by a physician.

Procedure

The patient lies on their back with the neck slightly extended. The physician applies gel to the skin of the neck and examines the thyroid gland using an ultrasound probe.

The size and structure of the gland, as well as the characteristics of any detected nodules, are assessed. Depending on their ultrasound appearance, nodules may be classified according to the TI-RADS system.

The examination is painless and usually takes a few minutes.

Limitations

Ultrasound, including TI-RADS assessment, provides information about the structural and ultrasound characteristics of thyroid nodules but cannot establish a histopathological diagnosis on its own.

The TI-RADS category indicates the level of ultrasound suspicion and helps determine further management. Depending on the TI-RADS category and nodule size, the physician may recommend ultrasound follow-up or fine-needle aspiration (FNA).

Contraindications

There are no absolute contraindications to thyroid ultrasound.

The examination can be performed in children, pregnant women and older adults, as it does not use ionizing radiation.

Advantages

• non-invasive and painless method;
• does not use ionizing radiation;
• allows real-time assessment of the thyroid gland and its nodules;
• can detect changes that may not be apparent during a clinical examination;
• provides standardized characterization of thyroid nodules using the TI-RADS system;
• helps identify patients who may require follow-up or additional investigations;
• can be repeated to monitor changes over time.
   

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ultrasound/about/pac-20395177
https://radiopaedia.org/articles/thyroid-imaging-reporting-and-data-system-ti-rads
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7390574/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7784109/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10472606/

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or have a flare-up of a condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing. Only a qualified specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment. To ensure the most accurate and consistent interpretation of test results, it is recommended to have your tests performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.