The Role of Imaging and Laboratory Tests in the Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders

Authors: Abdullah S. Althiabi, Abdulelah A. Alhussini, Faisal S. Alharbi, Haya Z. Aldajani, Reham M. Alkahtani, Nada A. Alotaibi, Nouf A. Alnosair, Saud Aljarbaa, Mohammed Alshehri

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14275170

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g8tnjq

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: The diagnosis of thyroid disorders requires an integrated approach using both laboratory tests and imaging techniques to assess thyroid function and morphology comprehensively. This study aimed to evaluate the combined diagnostic utility of laboratory markers and imaging modalities in diagnosing thyroid disorders in a tertiary hospital setting.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 150 patients with suspected or confirmed thyroid dysfunction. Laboratory tests included serum TSH, free T4, free T3, and thyroid antibodies, while imaging involved high-resolution ultrasound and, in selected cases, radionuclide scans. Correlation analyses were performed between laboratory and imaging findings, and diagnostic accuracy was assessed.

Results: Elevated TSH levels were observed in 43.3% of patients, while 61.3% of patients had thyroid nodules detected on ultrasound. Suspicious nodules constituted 27.2% of all nodules, with 32% of these being malignant. Combined laboratory and imaging assessment showed a sensitivity of 85%, specificity of 78%, and negative predictive value of 96% in diagnosing thyroid malignancy. Integration of laboratory markers and imaging enhanced the accuracy and confidence in diagnosing thyroid dysfunction and malignancy.

Conclusion: The combined use of laboratory tests and imaging modalities improves diagnostic accuracy in thyroid disorders, facilitating appropriate and timely management. Future research should focus on standardizing multimodal approaches and exploring their cost-effectiveness in various healthcare settings.

Keywords: Thyroid disorders, Laboratory tests, Imaging, Ultrasound, TSH, Diagnostic accuracy, Thyroid nodules, Multimodal diagnosis

Paper Id: 231776

Published On: 2024-09-03

Published In: Volume 12, Issue 5, September-October 2024

Cite This: The Role of Imaging and Laboratory Tests in the Diagnosis of Thyroid Disorders - Abdullah S. Althiabi, Abdulelah A. Alhussini, Faisal S. Alharbi, Haya Z. Aldajani, Reham M. Alkahtani, Nada A. Alotaibi, Nouf A. Alnosair, Saud Aljarbaa, Mohammed Alshehri - IJIRMPS Volume 12, Issue 5, September-October 2024. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.14275170

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