Impact of cytological pitfalls in the Bethesda System of Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology, on surgical decision-making of patients with thyroid nodules: Can these pitfalls be avoided?

Fine needle aspiration cytology remains a powerful screening tool to aid decision-making in the majority of the patients. Histological-cytological discrepancy can adversely impact the management of patients. Factors causing an adverse impact on surgical management were rare and potential avoidable reasons for them were identified. Cytological pitfalls may be avoided through screening for minor components, clinico-radiological correlation and experience.