The FT4/FT3 ratio combined with thyroglobulin and parathyroid hormone for distinguishing benign from malignant thyroid nodules: a retrospective study based on histopathological diagnosis

Purpose To evaluate the diagnostic value of the FT4/FT3 ratio combined with other laboratory markers in distinguishing malignant from benign thyroid nodules. Methods This retrospective study analyzed 359 patients with thyroid nodules (142 benign, 217 malignant) based on histopathological results. Clinical and laboratory data, including FT3, FT4, FT4/FT3 ratio, thyroglobulin (TG), parathyroid hormone (PTH), and TSH, were collected. Statistical analyses included ROC curves and multivariate logistic regression. Results Malignant nodules showed higher FT4/FT3 ratios, TG, PTH, and TSH levels ( p p Conclusion The FT4/FT3 ratio, combined with TG and PTH levels, enhances the differentiation of malignant thyroid nodules, offering a reliable diagnostic tool.