**1. Introduction**

A thyroid nodule is defined as a discrete radiologically distinct lesion from the surrounding thyroid parenchyma. Nodules which are palpable but do not correspond to distinct abnormalities on ultrasound do not fall under this category [1]. Clinically they can be identified by the doctor on examination or even noticed by the patient themselves. With the increasingly popular use of neck imaging modalities, thyroid nodules are being commonly identified during these imaging studies.

The clinical importance lies in excluding malignancy in a thyroid nodule, assessing functional status, associated with pain at appearance and compressive symptoms (if large) and accordingly decide the line of management. The key guidelines included to cover this area include


4.European Thyroid Association guidelines for ultrasound malignancy risk stratification of thyroid nodules in adults: The EU-TIRADS [4].

This chapter thus provides a comprehensive coverage of the topic with an optimal approach in management of a thyroid nodule.
