1000124138.jpg
Tell me about this Tests
analyse_media
This is a medical prescription/consultation slip for a female patient. Here is a breakdown of the prescription:
Prescription Summary
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Patient | Female |
| Doctor | Salman Ahmad |
Complaint
- Neck swelling
Finding (On Examination - O/E)
- Right Thyroid Nodule - A lump or growth found on the right side of the thyroid gland (located in the neck).
Investigation Advised
- FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) - circled and emphasized by the doctor
What is FNAC and Why Is It Ordered?
FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) is a minimally invasive diagnostic test used to investigate thyroid nodules. Here is what it involves:
- A thin (fine) needle is inserted into the thyroid nodule, usually guided by ultrasound
- A small sample of cells is withdrawn (aspirated)
- The cells are examined under a microscope (cytology) by a pathologist
- The result helps classify the nodule as benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), or sometimes indeterminate
Why FNAC for a Thyroid Nodule?
- It is the gold standard first-line investigation for any thyroid nodule
- It is quick, safe, and done as an outpatient procedure
- It helps avoid unnecessary surgery for benign nodules
- If malignancy is suspected, it guides the surgical approach
Possible Outcomes of Thyroid FNAC
| Result | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Benign | Usually just monitored with periodic ultrasound |
| Malignant | Surgery (thyroidectomy) typically recommended |
| Indeterminate/Suspicious | May need repeat FNAC or surgical removal for definitive diagnosis |
| Non-diagnostic | Repeat FNAC required |
In short: The doctor found a right thyroid nodule on examination and has ordered an FNAC test to determine whether it is benign or malignant. This is the standard and appropriate next step for any newly discovered thyroid nodule.
This is a shared conversation. Sign in to Orris to start your own chat.