The cytomorphological spectrum of Hashimoto thyroiditis and its correlation with serological parameters: A study in the coastal region

Abstract

Objective: To analyse the detailed cytomorphological spectrum in Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT), cytological grading and its significance with the hormonal and antibody status Methods: This is both a prospective and retrospective study of 102 cases of HT in a tertiary care institute of the eastern part of India. Detailed cytological parameters were observed, graded and correlated with the serological parameters. Results: The majority of patients were females with a younger age group (21–30 years) and diffuse thyromegaly was the common presentation. A good number of cases showed neutrophilic infiltration, background colloid and follicular hyperplasia. Among the cytological parameters, Hurthle cell change was correlated with hypothyroidism (P 0.05). Conclusion: A younger age of presentation in a coastal area with iodine sufficiency and supplementation needs further epidemiological studies. Fine-needle aspiration cytology is superior to other sophisticated methods in diagnosing HT, even in seronegative cases. A good number of cases displaying folliculolysis by neutrophils needs to be corroborated by larger studies. One should be vigilant while examining slides to rule out associated malignancy.

Keywords

• anti tpo antibody
• autoimmune thyroiditis
• cytomorphology
• neutrophils
• thyroid function test