Role of Intrathyroidal Calcifications Detected on Ultrasound as a Marker of Malignancy

Abstract

The presence of calcifications detected on TUS should alert the physician for the possibility of malignancy, and further work-up should be pursued. This information may be used to improve the sensitivity of other diagnostic tests such as fine needle aspiration biopsies. Given the relatively low sensitivity and specificity of the test, its use alone as a marker of malignancy is limited, but it may be used in combination with other known risk factors and tests to decide on the most appropriate treatment plan.