Correlation of ultrasonography, shear wave elastography and histologic findings of recurrent PTC

Abstract

The gold standard method for assessing PTC recurrences is the use of FNA under ultrasound guidance and pathology assessments. Due to the high accuracy of elastography and ultrasound, there seems to be a high correlation between the findings of these methods and the findings of FNA, which accelerates the diagnosis of recurrence of papillary thyroid cancer and faster treatment decisions. Unnecessary FNAs will be prevented. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the consistency of pathology and ultrasound and elastography findings in the diagnosis of recurrence of papillary thyroid cancer. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 30 patients (33 masses) who were diagnosed with recurrence of papillary thyroid cancer who had previously undergone total or partial thyroidectomy were included in the study by an endocrinologist. First, patients underwent shear wave elastography. Clinical findings included clinical signs on examination. Gray scale ultrasound findings were also recorded. Results: The diagnostic value of Shear Wave elastography was also examined to predict the definitive recurrence of PTC. According to the results, it was observed that after determining the mass status by ultrasound, in thyroid masses, elastography (Emean) with Cut Off Point equal to 18.8 Kpa, with sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive value of 100%, 69.23%, 100% and 63.64% for determining PTC recurrence. Also in lymph nodes, elastography (Emean) with Cut Off Point equal to 29.2 Kpa has sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive value of 100%, 69.23%, 100% and 63.64%, respectively, to determine the recurrence of PTC. In addition, regardless of the type of mass, elastography (Emean) with Cut Off Point equal to 30.25 Kpa, has sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive value of 85.71, 78.95, 88.24 and 75%, respectively. To determine the recurrence of PTC.