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Thyroid ultrasound screening and thyroid function in asymptomatic adults in primary care

Öznur KÜBRA ODABAŞ

hyroid disorders are common in the general population; however, data on thyroid ultrasound findings obtained in primary care settings remain scarce. Ultrasound is increasingly used by primary care physicians, yet evidence regarding its role in evaluating thyroid structure alongside thyroid function in asymptomatic adults is limited.To evaluate thyroid ultrasound findings and thyroid function test results in a healthy adult population undergoing routine health screening in a primary care settingThis prospective observational study will include adult individuals aged 35–65 years undergoing periodic occupational health examinations with no thyroid-related symptoms at presentation. Thyroid ultrasound examinations will be performed by a primary care physician experienced in point-of-care ultrasound. Thyroid structure, including gland volume, echogenicity, and presence of nodules, will be recorded. Thyroid function tests (thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, and free triiodothyronine) will be obtained concurrently. Demographic characteristics, medical history, current medications, and relevant lifestyle factors will be documented. Ultrasound findings identified in primary care will be referred to radiology for confirmation when clinically indicated. Associations between ultrasound findings and thyroid function parameters will be analyzed using descriptive statistical methodsThe study aims to describe the prevalence and characteristics of thyroid ultrasound findings in an asymptomatic adult population and their relationship with thyroid function test results in primary care. It is anticipated that structural thyroid abnormalities may be detected in individuals with normal laboratory findings.This study addresses an important evidence gap regarding thyroid ultrasound use in primary care. Evaluating thyroid structure alongside biochemical function may improve understanding of subclinical thyroid alterations in healthy adults.Prospective assessment of thyroid ultrasound findings combined with thyroid function testing in primary care may provide valuable insights into thyroid health in asymptomatic populations and inform future screening strategies. Keywords (MeSH) : Primary Health Care; Thyroid Diseases; Ultrasonography; Screening