Risk factors associated with malignancy in thyroid nodules A single-center observational study.

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Byron Alexander Toapanta García

Abstract

Introduction: Approximately 60% of adults have one or more thyroid nodules. The primary concern is the possibility of cancer, but only approximately 5% of cases are malignant. This study aimed to determine the clinical characteristics of patients with thyroid nodules diagnosed at a public Social Security referral center in Riobamba, Ecuador.


Methods: This observational and analytical study was conducted from January 2010 to July 2011. Records of patients with thyroid nodules and a histopathological study were included. Two study groups were analyzed: the first with a benign nodule histological result and the second with a malignant nodule. Sociodemographic criteria, clinical and ultrasound characteristics, and laboratory results were analyzed. The sample was probabilistic. Proportions were compared with a chi-square test. Risk factors are presented with odds ratios.


Results: Of the 580 patients, 454 did not require biopsy. A total of 126 patients were included, 54 of whom had malignant nodules (9.31% CI 7.07–11.97%). There was no difference in sex, origin, or age between the groups. The risk factors for the presence of a malignant thyroid nodule were pain (OR 155.9), hard consistency of the nodule (OR=21.7), and solid image of the nodule on ultrasound (OR=16.2).


Conclusions: Although many patients with thyroid nodules do not require biopsy, the malignancy rate among those needing biopsy was significantly higher than expected. The presence of certain factors, such as age, geographical origin, and histological characteristics of the nodules, was associated with an increased risk of malignancy.

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How to Cite
Risk factors associated with malignancy in thyroid nodules: A single-center observational study. (2024). Actas Médicas (Ecuador), 34(2), 145-151. https://doi.org/10.61284/215
Section
Original Research
Author Biography

Byron Alexander Toapanta García, School of Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Higher Polytechnic School of Chimborazo, Riobamba, Ecuador.

General practitioner (Medical Doctor) from the Chimborazo Polytechnic School, (Riobamba 2013). Specialist in Administration of Health Institutions from the University of the Americas (Guayaquil, 2024).

How to Cite

Risk factors associated with malignancy in thyroid nodules: A single-center observational study. (2024). Actas Médicas (Ecuador), 34(2), 145-151. https://doi.org/10.61284/215

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