MSCT differential diagnosis of benign and malignant nodules in patients of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis

Objective To compare MSCT features of benign and malignant nodules in patients with chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis(CTL),and to observe the value of MSCT in identification and diagnosis of these lesions.Methods MSCT findings,including the size,percentage of solid element,calcification,margin,capsule,the pattern and the degree of enhancement of 79thyroid nodules in 74patients with CLT were retrospectively analyzed,the differences of benign and malignant nodules were compared statistically.Results About 81.82%(18 / 22) malignant nodules were almost entirely solid,while 28.07%(16 / 57) benign nodules were mainly to cystic(all P0.05).Malignant nodules more frequently appeared microcalcification and internal calcification than those of benign nodules(all P0.05).Malignant nodules were likely to be ill-defined margin,lack capsule or insufficient capsule,homogeneous enhancement(all P0.05).There was no significant differences between malignant and benign nodules in ratio of nodules and thyroid tissues outside nodules in plain,arterial phase,parenchymal phase(all P0.05).Conclusion MSCT is helpful to differentiate benign and malignant nodules in CLT patients.