Abstract:

Mummified thyroid nodules are benign nodules with malignant signs, which share some similar features to papillary thyroid carcinoma on high frequency sonography, such as low echo, ill-defined margins, taller-than-wide shape, and microcalcification. Although the sonograms of the two are similar, their causes are different. However, there are also some specific sonographic manifestations, such as progressive shrinking over time, regular peripheral black and white halos, and eggshell calcification. Nevertheless, it is sometimes difficult to make a diagnosis of mummified thyroid nodules by high frequency ultrasound alone. With the rapid development and improvement of ultrasound elastography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, the hardness and microvascular perfusion of mummified nodules can be comprehensively evaluated, thus improving the accuracy of ultrasonic diagnosis and avoid excessive invasive diagnosis.

Key words: Mummified thyroid nodules, Papillary thyroid carcinoma, High frequency ultrasound, Contrast-enhanced ultrasound, Ultrasound elastography