General Surgery – Thyroid and Breast Disorders in NEET PG

Introduction

Thyroid and breast disorders are among the most frequently tested topics in General Surgery forNEET PG. These areas combine clinical examination skills, radiological interpretation, pathology correlation, and surgical decision-making. Many questions are case-based, requiring aspirants to identify a swelling, interpret investigation findings, and choose the most appropriate management. The key to mastering this topic lies in understanding patterns—whether it is a solitary thyroid nodule or a breast lump in a young woman. With a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment, thyroid and breast disorders become scoring and clinically relevant areas that bridge theory with real-world surgical practice.

Thyroid Nodules

• Differentiate a solitary thyroid nodule from multinodular goitre clinically and radiologically.


• Use ultrasound and FNAC as first-line investigations for evaluation.


• Identify red flag signs of malignancy, such as rapid growth and cervical lymphadenopathy.


• Understand indications for hemithyroidectomy versus total thyroidectomy.

Thyroid MalignanciesRecognisee common types: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic carcinoma.

• Identify characteristic features like orphan Annie nuclei in papillary carcinoma.


• Understand the role of radioactive iodine therapy in differentiated cancers.


• Monitor serum calcitonin levels in suspected medullary carcinoma.

Benign Breast Disorders

• NEET PG: Differentiate fibroadenoma, fibrocystic disease, and mastitis clinically.


• Recognise fibroadenoma as a painless, mobile, firm lump in young females.


• Use ultrasound as the preferred imaging modality in younger women.


• Manage mastitis with antibiotics and continued breastfeeding.

Breast Carcinoma

• Identify risk factors, including age, family history, and hormonal exposure.


• Apply triple assessment: clinical examination, imaging, and biopsy.


• Understand staging using the TNM classification system.


• Know treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy.

Surgical Principles and Lymphatics

• Understand indications for modified radical mastectomy versus breast-conserving surgery.


• Learn the importance of sentinel lymph node biopsy. Recognise complications such as lymphedema and nerve injury.


• Emphasise regular follow-up and screening strategies.

Conclusion

Thyroid and breast disorders in NEET PG  require clarity in clinical evaluation and a logical diagnostic approach. When you consistently correlate examination findings with imaging and pathology, management decisions become straightforward. Regular practice of clinical case scenarios and previous year questions strengthens confidence and accuracy. Ultimately, mastering these topics not only improves your exam performance but also enhances your ability to counsel patients and make informed surgical decisions in everyday clinical practice.