The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology

The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology is a standardized way doctors categorize test results from a tiny tissue sample of the thyroid gland. It helps determine the likelihood of thyroid cancer and guides treatment decisions. The system has six categories, from benign (not cancer) to suspicious and malignant (cancer), each with recommended follow-up steps. This structured approach improves communication between doctors and patients, ensuring more consistent and accurate diagnosis and management of thyroid nodules or lumps.