Ultrasound radiomics and genomics improve the diagnosis of cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules.

BACKGROUND: Increasing numbers of cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules (ITNs) present challenges for preoperative diagnosis, often leading to unnecessary diagnostic surgical procedures for nodules that prove benign. Research in ultrasound radiomics and genomic testing leverages high-throughput data and image or sequence algorithms to establish assisted models or testing panels for ITN diagnosis. Many radiomics models now demonstrate diagnostic accuracy above 80% and sensitivity over 90%, surpassing the performance of less experienced radiologists and, in some cases, matching the accuracy of experienced radiologists. Molecular testing panels have helped clinicians achieve accurate diagnoses of ITNs, preventing unnecessary diagnostic surgical procedures in 42%-61% of patients with benign nodules.

OBJECTIVE: In this review, we examined studies on ultrasound radiomics and genomic molecular testing for cytological ITNs conducted over the past 5 years, aiming to provide insights for researchers focused on improving ITN diagnosis.

CONCLUSION: Radiomics models and molecular testing have enhanced diagnostic accuracy before surgery and reduced unnecessary diagnostic surgical procedures for ITN patients.