Study of Cytomorphology Patterns of Breast Lesions and their Correlation with Thyroid Profile Over a Period of One and Half Years in a Tertiary Care Centre of Malwa Region

Abstract

Introduction: Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) has become an increasingly popular technique for assessment and initial diagnosis of breast lumps as it is the least invasive technique for obtaining a cytological diagnosis and is of high accuracy if done by experienced personnel. Thyroid hormone receptors affect both the normal breast cell differentiation and breast cancer cell proliferation, with effects of thyroid hormones similar to those caused by estrogens. Relationship between thyroid disease, such as nodular hyperplasia, hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer, with breast cancer was demonstrated in several studies. In the present study, we have evaluated the correlation of cytomorphological diagnosis of breast lesions with thyroid profile. Material and Methods: Total of 80 cases were included in the study and all necessary statistical analysis was done including the percentages, means, standard deviations, ranges and p values. Results: Triiodothyronine (T3) and Tetraiiodothryronine (T4) levels were statically significantly lower among participants with malignant breast lesions as compared to benign breast lesions.(p < 0.01).However mean values of both were normal in both these groups. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels among study participants with malignant breast lesions were statistically higher than those of benign breast lesions. However mean in both these groups was within normal range. Conclusion: No significant correlation between thyroid profile and breast lesions was established. But the effect of thyroid hormone on breast cancer clearly requires further research.