A Study of the Cytomorphological Spectrum Of Hashimoto Thyroiditis in Coastal India

Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) is a thyroid specific T-cell mediated autoimmune disease affecting predominantly women. It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in iodine sufficient areas. Fine needle aspiration cytology of thyroid provides a safe and accurate method for the diagnosis of this condition. Aim: To study the cytomorphological features of HT. Materials and Methods: Cytomorphological features of 150 cases of HT diagnosed by FNAC at our institute during May 2011-June 2013 were reviewed. Results: All cases were females, mean age being 38 years. Review of cytological smears showed moderate to high cellularity (87.3%). Most common epithelial cell pattern observed was the macrofollicular/ monolayered sheet pattern. Background of lymphocytes was seen in all the smears. Hurthle cells were present in 82% and lymphocytic infiltrate was seen in 136 cases (90.7%). Lymphoid to epithelial ratio (L:E) was high in 45.8%. Plasma cells were seen in 81% of cases. Conclusion: A diagnosis of HT can be made by carefully studying the aspirate smears, hence making FNAC a cost-effective procedure for this condition.