Microbial Etiology to Thyroid Pathology

Abstract

Introduction

Microbial infections are normally cited as a main environmental factor involved in pathology. The current study aimed at determining frequency of occurrence of pathogens in thyroid pathology.Our study is focused on human data. We have reviewed thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) samples for pathogens.

Methods

Biopsy by fine-needle aspiration was applied in investigating the nodule for microbial involvement. Two smears were prepared on slides from each sample. The first slide was processed through Ziehl Neelsen. The second slide was processed in gram stain, for the identification and classification of bacteria.

Results

Of the total 41 sampled patients, Evaluation of the presence of microorganisms in the thyroid FNA biopsies based on ZN and gram stains showed that a minimal percentage (12%) of the patients had a microbial aetiology. Among them, 2 cases (4.8%) had acid fast bacilli. Further 3 cases (7.2%) had gram negative rods.

Conclusion

The study findings suggested that the thyroid is less likely to suffer microbial infections. This is majorly due to the rich supply of the thyroid with both blood and lymphatic fluid and the presence of iodine which harbours some bactericidal properties.