Follicular adenomas usually present as clinically solitary thyroid nodules. Distinguishing an adenoma from follicular carcinoma requires tissue architecture.
Histological distinction
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The distinction between follicular adenoma and follicular carcinoma can only be made by histological examination.
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An adenoma shows no invasion of its capsule or the pericapsular blood vessels.
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Fine-needle aspiration provides cytological detail without tissue architecture and therefore cannot distinguish benign from malignant follicular lesions.
Treatment and follow-up
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Wide excision by total lobectomy provides both diagnosis and treatment.
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The remaining thyroid tissue is normal, so prolonged follow-up is unnecessary.