Thyroid metastases: combined role of ultrasonography and fine needle aspiration biopsy

Abstract

The ultrasonographic findings and the use of ultrasonography combined with fine needle aspiration in 4 cases of metastases to the thyroid are reported. The primary neoplasms were bronchogenic carcinoma (2 cases), malignant melanoma (1 case), and renal cell carcinoma (1 case). Ultrasonography demonstrated bilateral (2 cases) and unilateral (2 cases) enlargement of the gland. In 3 cases, the texture of the gland was heterogenous and had hypoechoic areas. In 1 case a homogeneous mass containing calcified focus was seen. Ultrasonography was able to evaluate the extent of the disease in all patients by revealing metastatic nodes or jugular vein thrombosis. Finally, ultrasonography was useful in guiding fine needle aspiration. The potential use of ultrasonography in detection and biopsy of small thyroid lesions in patients with malignant disease is discussed.