Diagnosing Dysphagia Due to Thyroid Nodules by Thyroid Ultrasound, a Case Series
10.11106/ijt.2024.17.2.304
- Author:
Zarwa IDREES
1
;
Michael MORKOS
Author Information
1. Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Publication Type:CASE REPORTS
- From:International Journal of Thyroidology
2024;17(2):304-308
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background and Objectives:Thyroid nodules can cause dysphagia by direct esophageal compression. Diagnosis of esophageal compression during thyroid ultrasound (US) has not been described.
Materials and Methods:We present a case series of four patients who presented with dysphagia due to compressive thyroid nodules. Thyroid US demonstrated esophageal compression due to the culprit nodules, which were subsequently treated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Two benign biopsies were confirmed for each before ablation. Symptom scoring was used to assess the severity of dysphagia before and one month after the procedure.
Results:All patients reported improvement in their dysphagia and a decline in symptom scores a month after the procedure. Thyroid US also demonstrated improvement in esophageal compression at that time.
Conclusion:Thyroid US can be a valuable tool in diagnosing dysphagia due to esophageal compression caused by thyroid nodules.
