Preoperative Ultrasonographic Characteristics and Diagnostic Utility of Cytological Findings in Non-invasive Follicular Thyroid Neoplasm With Papillary-Like Nuclear Features: Single Center Experience

Abstract

Objective: Non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP) is a low-risk thyroid malignancy. The aim of this study was to observe the preoperative diagnostic characteristics of NIFTP nodules.Methods: Data from a total of 38 patients aged >18 years, diagnosed postoperatively with histopathologically confirmed NIFTP between 2018 and 2023 at a tertiary healthcare center, were retrospectively reviewed. Cytological findings from thyroid fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsies and preoperative ultrasonographic (US) features of the nodules were recorded.Results: Of the 38 patients, 9 (23.7%) were male, and 29 (76.3%) were female. The mean patient age was 43.58±12.9 years, and the mean tumor size was 2.88±1.40 cm. According to the American Thyroid Association risk classification, 83.3% of nodules were categorized as low suspicion and 16.7% as intermediate suspicion. Based on the American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System, NIFTP nodules were classified as TR2, TR3, and TR4. FNA cytology spanned all Bethesda categories.Conclusion: The broad spectrum of preoperative US features and FNA cytological findings appears inadequate for definitive NIFTP diagnosis.