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Introduction Thyroid cancer, one of the most frequently diagnosed endocrine malignancies, has witnessed a discernible global surge, predominantly among young adults. The etiological spectrum of thyroid cancer ranges from genetic mutations to environmental triggers. The early and precise detection of thyroid nodules (TNs) is crucial, given their latent potential for malignancy. Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS) is an evidence-based stratification tool designed to standardize the assessment of TNs. Within this system, nodules categorized as TI-RADS 3 present an intermediate risk of malignancy, thereby necessitating meticulous evaluation. The objective of this study is to investigate the rates of cancer within thyroid nodules classified as TI-RADS 3, to determine the accuracy and effectiveness of the TI-RADS classification system in predicting malignancy at this intermediate-risk level, and to improve the diagnostic process and management strategies for these nodules. Methods A retrospective study was carried out on patients diagnosed with TI-RADS-3 thyroid nodules at King Fahad Hospital, Al-Hufof, between January 2019 and May 2023. Data were extracted from electronic medical records and encompassed patient demographics, and clinical and pathological details. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software version 27.0.1 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) examining the relationship between clinical characteristics and biopsy outcomes. Results The study involved 162 participants, mostly females (82.1%), with a median age of 43 years. Thyroid nodule analysis revealed 92.0% benign and 8.0% malignant cases, with the most common nodule size ranging from 2 to 2.4 cm. No significant correlation was found between clinical characteristics and biopsy results, indicating neither age nor gender significantly predicts malignancy in thyroid nodules within this cohort. Conclusion The majority of TI-RADS 3 nodules at King Fahad Hospital were benign. Yet, relying solely on TI-RADS for clinical decisions is not advised. An integrated approach, encompassing TI-RADS gradings and other nodule features, is essential for balanced patient management between intervention and observation.
RESUMO
Background Hair plays a significant role in physical appearance and hair loss can profoundly affect self-esteem and mental health. Studies show that people with clinically obvious and undetectable hair loss may have dramatically decreased quality of life (QoL). This study investigated the impact of androgenic alopecia on the quality of life of male individuals in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and their willingness to seek treatment. Methods In the eastern province of Saudi Arabia, a cross-sectional study was carried out among men identified with androgenic alopecia (AGA). A self-administered survey was disseminated among the patients through social media sites. The questionnaire includes fundamental demographic factors including age, place of residence, level of education, the severity of androgenic alopecia, treatment method, and Skindex-29 to assess the patient's quality of life. Results Four hundred-two male patients out of 717 participants were selected, and 158 (39.3%) were aged between 20 to 29 years old. Satisfaction with treatment medication was reported by 24 (19.5%) out of those who underwent treatment (n=123). Less effectiveness was the most common reason for treatment dissatisfaction (81, 81.8%). The overall mean Skindex-29 score was 23.2 (SD 19.6) out of 100 points. Younger age, suffering hair loss for a shorter duration, undergoing alopecia treatment, being diagnosed with alopecia by a medical doctor, and having a moderate level of AGA were the factors that greatly affected the patient's QoL. Conclusion Consistent with the literature, this study showed that AGA significantly impaired patients' QoL. Among QoL domains, the symptoms domain had a greater effect on patients than the emotions or functional domains. Younger males who were suffering recently from hair loss and were diagnosed with AGA by the medical doctor demonstrated greater QoL impairment than the rest of the patients. A multicenter study may result in a better representation of the impact of QoL in patients with AGA.
