Comparative analysis of ultrasound images of Hashimoto thyroiditis with benign or malignant lesions

Objective To investigate the value of ultrasound in the diagnosis of Hashimoto thyroiditis with benign and malignant lesions.Methods 82 cases of Hashimoto′s thyroiditis with thyroid cancer and 87 cases of Hashimoto′s thyroiditis with benign lesions were enrolled in the study.The pathological findings and preoperative ultrasonography were analyzed.Results There were significant differences between the Hashimoto thyroiditis patients with benign lesions or those with thyroid cancer.The manifestation of Hashimoto thyroiditis with thyroid cancer had following characteristics: The nodule was usually hypoechoic with irregular edge,no obvious capsule and often accompanied with gravel-like calcification;Ultrasonic echo of some local glands was significantly reduced with diffused calcification of the local glands;The blood flow display showed strip bloodstream in multiple nodules.The benign lesions usually had clear outlines,various ranges of echo,rare gravel calcification,as well as visible blood flow in the surrounding.Conclusion It should be noted that malignant lesions may exist if Hashimoto thyroiditis is combined with other lesions in which the ultrasound show irregular nodular morphology and unclear border associated with calcification.