Abstract
Objective : The purpose of this report is an evaluation of “Unsatisfactory” in the Thyroid Bethesda System (TBS), compared with the Japanese Thyroid Reporting System (JTRS).
Study Design : We reviewed 1072 thyroid aspiration cytology nodules performed in Kuma Hospital from April to July in 2012, and retrospectively examined 118 “Unsatisfactory” nodules in either conventional preparations or liquid based cytology (LBC) preparations using needles wash-out fluid.
Results : The “Unsatisfactory” rates of the TBS and JTRS in the conventional specimens were 7.6% and 5.3%, respectively, and for both conventional and LBC specimens the TBS and JTRS “Unsatisfactory” rates were 2.9% and 1.2%, respectively. Re-aspirations were performed with an ultrasound system for cases in which malignancy was suspected. The “Unsatisfactory” rates of the LBC specimens in ultrasonographically benign nodules and calcified nodules were lower than those of the conventional specimens.
Conclusion : When we use the TBS instead of the JTRS, the “Unsatisfactory” rate would be increased. In such cases, an additional LBC method using needles wash-out fluid is recommended. To perform re-aspiration in “Unsatisfactory” cases, ultrasound findings should be considered.
