A Case Report on Thyroid Nodule

Abstract

Background: Thyroid nodules are commonly encountered in clinical practice, especially in women, and require a structured evaluation to differentiate between cancerous and benign lesions. The diagnostic algorithm relies heavily on fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and ultrasound-based TI-RADS scoring. Case Presentation: We describe the case of a 27-year-old female South Indian patient from Ballari, Karnataka, who had a two-month-old, painless swelling on the left side of her neck that was gradually getting worse. A heterogeneous, single thyroid nodule measuring 3.5 × 1.5 cm was found in the left lobe during clinical examination and ultrasound. A benign cystic lesion was suggested by FNAC, which was conducted based on TI-RADS scoring (TR3). Surgery was planned, though, because of the size of the lesion and its unclear cytological characteristics. Hemi-thyroidectomy was done after the lesion was discovered. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the importance of integrating clinical, radiological, and cytological findings in managing thyroid nodules. While imaging and FNAC may suggest benignity, surgical excision may still be indicated in uncertain or large lesions. Histopathological confirmation remains the gold standard for diagnosis and planning definitive treatment.