The Coexistence of Occult (Latent) Thyroid Cancer and Multinodular Goiter After Total Thyroidectomy: A Retrospective Study

Introduction Multinodular goiter (MNG) is a common thyroid disorder characterized by the presence of multiple nodules within the thyroid gland. While most cases of MNG are benign, there is a risk of malignancy, particularly in nodules with certain features. The coexistence of occult (latent) thyroid cancer within MNG presents diagnostic and management challenges, underscoring the need for comprehensive investigation and treatment strategies. Objective The objective of this retrospective study is to investigate the prevalence of occult thyroid carcinoma in non-toxic MNG following total thyroidectomy. Materials and methods The study population consisted of 412 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy between 2004 and 2022 at the Second Surgical Department of the 424 General Military Hospital of Education in Thessaloniki. Data collection included patients' demographic characteristics, surgical indications for thyroidectomy, and histopathological examination findings. Initial data were available for all 412 patients, while sufficient information was present for 319 individuals, with a subset of 271 undergoing total thyroidectomy due to non-toxic MNG. Out of the aforementioned group, 253 cases were histologically confirmed as MNG. Subsequently, a statistical analysis was conducted concerning age, gender, the association of MNG with malignancy, and other thyroid disorders. Results Out of the total 412 thyroidectomies performed, 271 patients remained for statistical analysis and study. Among them, 253 patients had histologically confirmed MNG. Among the histological findings, 38 cases (14.02%) were identified with occult carcinoma within MNG. The predominant histological type was papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), comprising 93.3% of cases. Additionally, 18 patients (6.64%) were diagnosed with MNG, Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), and malignancy concurrently. Conclusions The coexistence of occult thyroid carcinoma within MNG underscores the importance of vigilant evaluation and management strategies in patients undergoing total thyroidectomy. These findings emphasize the need for comprehensive preoperative assessment and postoperative surveillance to detect and address occult thyroid cancer, thereby optimizing patient care and outcomes.