Thyroid ultrasonography versus scintigraphy for establishing a stepwise imaging approach in pediatric patients with thyroid dysgenesis in resource-limited settings

Introduction

Thyroid scintigraphy and ultrasonography are the two primary imaging modalities widely used for thyroid visualization in pediatric patients with congenital hypothyroidism (CH). These modalities provide complementary information. In resource-limited settings, adopting a stepwise approach for selecting the initial imaging modality is essential. Aim of the study: To compare the diagnostic performance of thyroid ultrasonography, thyroid scintigraphy, and combined modalities in categorizing the type of thyroid dysgenesis. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study included 56 patients with CH due to thyroid dysgenesis. 99mTc thyroid scintigraphy was performed in all patients at diagnosis. Participants underwent thyroid ultrasonographic examination.