Fine needle aspiration biopsy indications for thyroid nodules: compare a point-based risk stratification system with a pattern-based risk stratification system.

• Malignant risk of thyroid nodules can be stratified by ultrasound. • American College of Radiology guidelines were more accurate for differentiating malignant thyroid nodules from benign nodules. • American College of Radiology guidelines were more reliable for recommending thyroid nodules for biopsy.