Cigna Head and Neck Ultrasound - (0549) Form

Medical Coverage Policy: 0549

The following Coverage Policy applies to health benefit plans administered by Cigna Companies. Certain Cigna Companies and/or lines of business only provide utilization review services to clients and do not make coverage determinations. References to standard benefit plan language and coverage determinations do not apply to those clients.

Coverage Policies are intended to provide guidance in interpreting certain standard benefit plans administered by Cigna Companies. Please note, the terms of a customer’s particular benefit plan document [Group Service Agreement, Evidence of Coverage, Certificate of Coverage, Summary Plan Description (SPD) or similar plan document] may differ significantly from the standard benefit plans upon which these Coverage Policies are based.

For example, a customer’s benefit plan document may contain a specific exclusion related to a topic addressed in a Coverage Policy. In the event of a conflict, a customer’s benefit plan document always supersedes the information in the Coverage Policies. In the absence of a controlling federal or state coverage mandate, benefits are ultimately determined by the terms of the applicable benefit plan document.

Coverage determinations in each specific instance require consideration of 1) the terms of the applicable benefit plan document in effect on the date of service; 2) any applicable laws/regulations; 3) any relevant collateral source materials including Coverage Policies and; 4) the specific facts of the particular situation.

Each coverage request should be reviewed on its own merits. Medical directors are expected to exercise clinical judgment where appropriate and have discretion in making individual coverage determinations. Where coverage for care or services does not depend on specific circumstances, reimbursement will only be provided if a requested service(s) is submitted in accordance with the relevant criteria outlined in the applicable Coverage Policy, including covered diagnosis and/or procedure code(s).

Reimbursement is not allowed for services when billed for conditions or diagnoses that are not covered under this Coverage Policy (see “Coding Information” below). When billing, providers must use the most appropriate codes as of the effective date of the submission. Claims submitted for services that are not accompanied by covered code(s) under the applicable Coverage Policy will be denied as not covered.

Coverage Policies relate exclusively to the administration of health benefit plans. Coverage Policies are not recommendations for treatment and should never be used as treatment guidelines. In certain markets, delegated vendor guidelines may be used to support medical necessity and other coverage determinations.

Coverage Policy

Ultrasound (US) of soft tissues of the head and neck (CPT® 76536).

This CP does not address transcranial Doppler study, carotid vessel duplex scan, or US for biopsy guidance.

Indications:

Ultrasound of head and neck soft tissues is considered medically necessary for an individual with ANY of the following indications:

• Neoplasm of the head or neck
• Enlarged lymph node that is suspicious for malignancy
• Soft tissue mass of the head or neck
• Thyroid or parathyroid cancer
• Thyroid cancer screening in high-risk individuals (e.g., history of head and neck irradiation; positive family history of thyroid cancer in a first-degree relative or a thyroid cancer syndrome family history, such as familial polyposis, Carney complex, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, Werner syndrome, or Cowden syndrome).

• thyrotoxicosis
• thyroid nodule
• multinodular goiter
• primary hyperparathyroidism
• hypercalcemia
• assessment of infection (e.g., rule out abscess)

congenital primary hypothyroidism

salivary gland stones or infection

suspected or known foreign body

Head and neck ultrasound is not covered or reimbursable for all other indications.

General Background

Ultrasound imaging of the head uses sound waves to produce pictures of the brain and cerebrospinal fluid. Ultrasonography requires a window that is unimpeded by bone or air, limiting the type of head evaluations it offers. Advances in US technology have enhanced anatomical characterization of neck pathology, offering higher diagnostic accuracy in suitably trained hands. A common neck ultrasound is ultrasound of the thyroid which uses sound waves to produce pictures of the thyroid gland within the neck. It does not use ionizing radiation. For the head or neck evaluation, a high-resolution, small-part transducer with higher frequencies is generally used; the higher the frequency, the better the spatial resolution.

Types of ultrasonography include:

• B (brightness) mode ultrasonography, also known as grey scale, renders a two-dimensional image in which the organs and tissues of interest are depicted as points of variable brightness.
• Doppler US is used to detect moving blood cells or other moving structures and measure their direction and speed of movement. Color Doppler US uses a computer to convert the Doppler measurements into an array of colors. This color visualization is combined with a standard ultrasound picture of a blood vessel to show the speed and direction of blood flow through the vessel.
• Power Doppler is used to obtain images that are difficult or impossible to obtain using standard color Doppler and to provide greater detail of blood flow, especially in vessels that are located inside organs. Power Doppler is more sensitive than color Doppler for the detection and demonstration of blood flow, but provides no information about the direction of flow.
• Color and spectral Doppler both reveal the direction of blood flow.
• Spectral Doppler displays the blood flow measurements graphically, displaying flow velocities recorded over time.

Alternatives to ultrasound may include but are not limited to physical examination, serum lab work, conservative therapy, referral to a specialist and surgical exploration.

Literature Review

Head or neck neoplasm / Soft tissue mass

Ultrasound is an effective diagnostic imaging modality for evaluation of head and neck neoplasms and soft tissue masses detected on clinical examination. No single sonographic feature can accurately distinguish a normal or reactive lymph node from a malignant one. Sonographers look at nodal size, shape, location, echotexture, and vascularity characterization. Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy with cytologic analysis is the gold standard for the confirmation (or exclusion) of malignancy in suspicious lymph nodes. Although computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are also used to evaluate cervical lymph nodes, the nature and internal architecture of small lymph nodes (<5 mm) may not be readily assessed. In addition, MRI may not identify intranodal calcification which is a useful feature in predicting metastatic nodes from papillary carcinoma of the thyroid. On contrast-enhanced CT, the reported sensitivity and specificity in the evaluation of metastatic cervical lymph nodes are 90.2% and 93.9% respectively. On high resolution MRI, the sensitivity and specificity in assessing metastatic nodes are 86% and 94% respectively, whereas those in evaluating lymphomas are 85% and 95% respectively.

Positron emission tomography (PET) has a relatively lower sensitivity (80.3%) and specificity (92.8%) in the evaluation of metastatic nodes, but the sensitivity (91.8%) and specificity (98.9%) are higher when PET/CT is used. Among different imaging modalities, ultrasound has the highest sensitivity in the assessment of malignant cervical nodes, whereas PET/CT has the highest specificity in the diagnosis (Ahuja, et al., 2008). US is sensitive compared to clinical examination (96.8% and 73.3% respectively) in patients with previous head and neck cancer with post-radiation neck fibrosis (Ahuja, et al.,2008).

In assessing the use of US of parotid masses, Khalife et al. (2016) reported the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of US for differentiating malignant from benign parotid tumors were calculated as 57%, 95%, 80%, and 87%, respectively.

In oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients, Jayapal et al. (2019) reported the overall accuracy of ultrasound examination of cervical lymph nodes prior to surgical neck dissection was 77.83%, and the sonographic criterion of irregular margin showed the highest predictability followed by the size.

Also assessing oral SCC patients, Shetty et al. (2015) reported the accuracy of palpation, ultrasonography, and computed tomography in the evaluation of metastatic cervical lymph nodes as 72.43%, 76.92%, and 76.28%, respectively.

In laryngeal imaging, high-resolution ultrasound provides anatomical detail in the superficial anatomy of the neck and has become the first-line imaging investigation for neck mass. Limitations of laryngeal ultrasonography are thyroid cartilage ossification and the air contained in the larynx; however, modern real-time high-frequency Medical Coverage Policy: 0549 sonography has improved imaging resolution (McQueen, et al., 2018; Mannelli, et al., 2016; Giacomini, et al., 2013).

Lymphadenopathy

Lymphadenopathy is benign and self-limited in most patients. Etiologies include infection, autoimmune disorders and malignancy, as well as medications and iatrogenic causes. The history and physical examination alone usually identify the cause of lymphadenopathy.

When the cause is unknown, lymphadenopathy should be classified as localized or generalized. Patients with localized lymphadenopathy should be evaluated for etiologies typically associated with the region involved according to lymphatic drainage patterns.

Generalized lymphadenopathy, defined as two or more involved regions, often indicates underlying systemic disease.

Balm et al. (2010) suggests when a suspicious node has been found in a patient with no current or previous cancer related diagnoses, accurate examination of the upper aerodigestive tract mucosa by mirror examination and/or fiber-optic or rigid endoscopy is required, as well as (bimanual) palpation of the oropharynx and mouth.

If this results in the detection of a primary carcinoma, further specific diagnostic measures can be taken.

If no primary tumor is detected, the next diagnostic step is the fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of the node by an experienced cytologist or surgeon. If the lesion is more difficult to approach or cytology is nondiagnostic, ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration cytology (USFNAC) has to be performed.

Gaddey et al. (2016) recommends:

• Ultrasonography should be used as the initial imaging modality for children up to 14 years presenting with a neck mass with or without fever. (Evidence rating C)
• Computed tomography should be used as the initial imaging modality for children older than 14 years and adults presenting with solitary or multiple neck masses.

(Evidence rating C)

Evidence ratings: A = consistent, good-quality patient-oriented evidence; B = inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence; C = consensus, disease-oriented evidence, usual practice, expert opinion, or case series

Friedmann et al. (2008) proposes worrisome features of lymphadenopathy in children that should lead to additional evaluation and possible biopsy include:

• Supraclavicular location;
• Size greater than 2 cm in a cervical lymph node;
• A hard, firm, or matted consistency of an enlarged lymph node;
• Lack of associated infectious symptoms;
• Lack of improvement over a 4-week period; and
• Accompanying constitutional symptoms.

CBC, ESR, and chest radiographs are inexpensive, useful screening tests that can aid the clinician in determining whether a biopsy should be performed.

Friedmann et al. (2008) suggests US can be useful to help identify an abscess that requires surgical intervention.

Thyroid disease / Thyroid cancer

Any enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can be caused by iodine deficiency or a thyroid disorder, may be referred to as goiter. A multinodular goiter contains multiple distinct nodules within the goiter, but its cause is less clear. Thyroid nodules are solid or fluid-filled lumps that form within the thyroid. Thyrotoxicosis is the clinical manifestation of excess thyroid hormone action at the tissue level due to inappropriately high circulating thyroid hormone concentrations. Hyperthyroidism, a subset of thyrotoxicosis, refers to excess thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion by the thyroid gland.

Although the chances that a nodule is malignant are small, certain factors increase the risk of thyroid cancer, such as a family history of thyroid or other endocrine cancers. Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool for certain thyroid diseases including evaluating thyroid nodules. The pattern of sonographic features associated with a nodule confers a risk of malignancy, and combined with nodule size, guides fine needle aspiration (FNA) decision-making.

Wu et al. (2012) evaluated the accuracy of ultrasonography in the preoperative diagnosis of cervical lymph node metastasis in patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). This meta-analysis found the pooled patient-based sensitivity for ultrasonography was 0.72, specificity was 0.98, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.94.

In a meta-analysis, Trimboli et al. (2020) assessed the reliability of using contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to assess thyroid nodules, using histological diagnosis as the gold standard. The overall number of reported nodules was 1515, of which 775 were classified as positive at CEUS and 740 as negative. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of CEUS were 85%, 82%, 83%, and 85%, respectively.

The widespread use of US is recognized as the most important driver of thyroid cancer overdiagnosis. To avoid excessive diagnosis and overtreatment, US should not be used as a general community screening tool and should be reserved for patients at high risk of thyroid cancer and in the diagnostic management of incidentally discovered thyroid nodules (Li, et al., 2017; Haugen, et al., 2016; Campanella, et al., 2014).

An elevated TSH alone is not a reason to order a thyroid ultrasound. The AACE 2012 Clinical Practice Guidelines for Hypothyroidism in Adults addresses diagnostic tests for hypothyroidism. Under section titled ‘Other diagnostic tests for hypothyroidism’, ultrasound is not addressed. Physical exam and lab findings are addressed (Garber, et al., 2012).

A child with a confirmed diagnosis of congenital hypothyroidism needs prompt treatment with L-thyroxine and the etiological research may be delayed, considering that the first concern is to preserve the child’s central nervous system development. Thyroid imaging is unlikely to change immediate management in the majority of cases of congenital hypothyroidism but may help with prognosis and counseling. In less-common causes and equivocal cases, immediate management may be affected by the imaging results.

In the first years of life thyroid ultrasound allows for the diagnosis of hypoplasia or dyshormonogenesis (failure of an anatomically normal thyroid gland to produce sufficient thyroid hormone). When the gland is not visualized, it allows consideration of thyroid dysgenesis (failure of normal thyroid development) (Livett, et al., 2019; Wassner, et al., 2018; Borges, et al., 2017).

Primary hyperparathyroidism is usually due to a benign overgrowth of parathyroid tissue either as a single gland (80% of cases) or as a multiple gland disorder (15–20% of cases). Primary hyperparathyroidism is generally discovered when asymptomatic but the disease always has the potential to become symptomatic, resulting in bone loss and kidney stones. To identify abnormal parathyroid tissue, preoperative localization approaches use ultrasound, scintigraphy, or CT. Ultrasound and sestamibi-SPECT have comparable accuracy, with US pooled sensitivities of 76.1% and PPVs of 93.2% (Bilezikian, et al., 2018; Cheung, et al., 2012).

Salivary glands

Sialolithiasis is stones within the salivary glands or the salivary gland ducts. Sialoadenitis is inflammation of a salivary gland, usually associated with swelling. Most (80 to 90 percent) salivary gland stones occur in the submandibular glands. Sialolithiasis is a clinical diagnosis based on a characteristic history and physical examination. There is typically sudden onset of swelling and pain in the affected gland associated with eating or anticipation of eating. A stone may be seen at the opening of the affected salivary gland duct or palpated along the course of the duct.

Imaging can provide details about the location of a stone and can be helpful if the diagnosis is unclear or if there is concern about a salivary gland tumor. Imaging can also be helpful when a complication, such as an abscess, is suspected. Solid lesions are concerning for salivary gland neoplasm, both benign and malignant, or lymphoma. More than 90 percent of stones 2 mm in diameter or larger can be detected by ultrasound. Advantages of ultrasound include its noninvasive nature, relatively low cost, and lack of radiation exposure. Ultrasound disadvantages include the need for an experienced operator and low sensitivity for detecting salivary gland neoplasms or stone related complications, such as strictures (UpToDate/Fazio, et al., 2022).

Foreign body

Radiological assessment (conventional X-ray, ultrasound, multidetector computed tomography [MDCT], or magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]) should be adapted to the expected material of the foreign body (wood, glass, metal, tooth, debris, etc.) to minimize the risk of false-negative findings. Ultrasound and MRI may be considered if an object is occult on X-ray/CT (Voss, et al., 2021; Voss, et al., 2018).

Infection (e.g., rule out abscess)

Friedmann et al. (2008) suggests US can be useful to help identify an abscess that requires surgical intervention. The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) (2023) supports nodal evaluation in pediatric patients with cervical lymphadenopathy, including but not limited to evaluation for necrosis and abscess formation in the setting of acute lymphadenititis. Also see Lymphadenopathy (above).

Professional Societies/Organizations

American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO) — Head and Neck Surgery (HNS)

The AAO-HNS 2017 Clinical Practice Guideline ‘Evaluation of the Neck Mass in Adults’

(Pynnonen, et al., 2017) addresses imaging. The guideline states that reactive cervical lymphadenopathy commonly occurs with respiratory infection. The literature is inconsistent about how long it may be reasonable to follow a neck mass attributed to inflammation. While some sources acknowledge that resolution of inflammatory lymphadenopathy may take six to twelve weeks, most sources recommend a period of observation limited to two weeks and do not advise delaying further evaluation for malignancy beyond the initial 2-week period.

Ultrasound can be used to characterize a neck mass, to guide percutaneous tissue sampling, and to search for additional masses. It is both noninvasive and inexpensive, and it is increasingly advocated by many imagers, particularly outside the United States.

Ultrasound is, however, best suited for evaluation of superficial tissue and will not adequately visualize most portions of the upper aerodigestive tract, where many primary tumors will arise. Ultrasound is also operator dependent, and quality may vary considerably per the experience of the ultrasonographer.

Ultrasound may be considered a first option in clinical situations excluded by this review (thyroid, salivary masses), in situations where there will be a delay in obtaining CT or MRI, if the use of contrast medium is contraindicated, or as an adjunct to expedite FNA biopsy.

The Key Action Statement on Imaging states:

Clinicians should order a neck computed tomography (CT; or magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]) with contrast for patients with a neck mass deemed at increased risk for malignancy*. (Strong recommendation based on randomized controlled trials.)
increased risk for malignancy may include:

• when the patient lacks a history of infectious etiology and the mass has been present for ≥2 weeks without significant fluctuation or the mass is of uncertain duration.
• based on ≥1 of these physical examination characteristics:
• fixation to adjacent tissues, firm consistency,
• size >1.5 cm,
• and/or ulceration of overlying skin (AAO-HNS/Pynnonen, 2017).

The AAO-HNS Position Statement on Surgeon Performed Neck Ultrasound

states the AAO-HNS supports surgeons performing ultrasound of the head and neck, including ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration for diagnostic purposes.

Neck ultrasound is not an extension of the physical exam, but rather a discrete diagnostic procedure (Adopted 3/20/2016, Reaffirmed 6/09/2021).

The AAO-HNS Clinical Practice Guideline Update on Adult Sinusitis

(Rosenfeld, 2015) does not address ultrasound.

The AAO-HNS Position Statement on Parathyroid Imaging

states that based on comprehensive evidence in the medical literature and expert opinion, the AAO-HNS affirms that select preoperative imaging can facilitate localization of hyperfunctional parathyroid glands and thus improve outcomes for patients undergoing surgery for hyperparathyroidism.

Examples of imaging modalities that consistently provide the most accurate and detailed preoperative anatomic localization of hyperfunctional parathyroid glands include but are not limited to: high resolution neck ultrasound; CT neck/mediastinum with contrast; sestamibi Tc99m radionuclide with SPECT/CT fusion; and MRI (Adopted 03/11/2018).

American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE)

The AACE 2016 Medical Guidelines for Clinical Practice for the Diagnosis and Management of Thyroid Nodules specify when to perform thyroid ultrasound:

• Ultrasound (US) evaluation is recommended for patients who are at risk* for thyroid malignancy, have palpable thyroid nodules or goiter, or have neck lymphadenopathy suggestive of a malignant lesion [BEL 2, GRADE A**].
• US evaluation is not recommended as a screening test for the general population or patients with a normal thyroid on palpation and a low clinical risk of thyroid disease [BEL 4, GRADE C] (Gharib, et al., 2016).

Features Suggesting Increased Risk of Malignant Potential:

• History of head and neck irradiation
• Family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, or papillary thyroid carcinoma
• Age <14 or >70 years
• Male sex
• Growth of the nodule
• Firm or hard nodule consistency
• Cervical adenopathy
• Fixed nodule
• Persistent dysphonia, dysphagia, or dyspnea

**BEL = best evidence level
1: Well-controlled, generalizable, randomized trials, adequately powered, well-controlled multicenter trials, large meta-analyses with quality ratings, All-or-none evidence.
2: Randomized controlled trials with limited body of data, Well-conducted prospective cohort studies, Well-conducted meta-analyses of cohort studies.
3: Methodologically flawed randomized clinical trials, Observational studies, Case series or case reports, Conflicting evidence, with weight of evidence supporting the recommendation.
4: Expert consensus, Expert opinion based on experience.

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Grading of Recommendations
A: >1 Conclusive level 1 publications demonstrating benefit >> risk, Action based on strong evidence. Action recommended for indications reflected by published reports. Action can be used with other conventional therapy or as first-line therapy.
B: No conclusive level 1 publication. Action recommended for indications reflected by the published reports OR ≥1 Conclusive level 2 publications demonstrating benefit >> risk. Use if the patient declines or does not respond to conventional therapy; must monitor for adverse effects. Action based on intermediate evidence. Can be recommended as “second- line” therapy
C: No conclusive level 1 or 2 publications. Action recommended for indications reflected by the published reports OR ≥1 Conclusive level 3 publication demonstrating benefit >> risk OR No conclusive risk at all and no benefit at all. Use when the patient declines or does not respond to conventional therapy, provided there are no, important adverse effects. “No objection” to recommending their use or continuing their use. Action based on weak evidence.
D: No conclusive level 1, 2, or 3 publication demonstrating benefit >> risk. Not recommended. Patient is advised to discontinue use OR Conclusive level 1, 2, or 3 publication demonstrating risk >> benefit. Action not based on any evidence.

The AACE 2012 Clinical Practice Guidelines for Hypothyroidism in Adults addresses diagnostic tests for hypothyroidism. Under section titled ‘Other diagnostic tests for hypothyroidism’, ultrasound is not addressed. Physical exam and lab findings are addressed (Garber, et al., 2012).

American Association of Endocrine Surgeons (AAES)

The AAES Guidelines for Definitive Management of Primary Hyperparathyroidism (Wilhelm, et al., 2016) states:

Recommendation 4-1: Patients who are candidates for parathyroidectomy should be referred to an expert clinician to decide which imaging studies to perform based on their knowledge of regional imaging capabilities (strong recommendation; low quality evidence).

American Thyroid Association (ATA)

The ATA 2016 Guidelines for Diagnosis and Management of Hyperthyroidism and Other Causes of Thyrotoxicosis lists these recommendations that include direct reference to ultrasonography:

• The etiology of thyrotoxicosis should be determined. If the diagnosis is not apparent based on the clinical presentation and initial biochemical evaluation, diagnostic testing is indicated and can include, depending on available expertise and resources, (1) measurement of thyrotropin receptor antibody, (2) determination of the radioactive iodine uptake, or (3) measurement of thyroidal blood flow on ultrasonography. (Strong recommendation, moderate-quality evidence).
• The use of thyroid ultrasonography in all patients with Graves’ disease has been shown to identify more nodules and cancer than does palpation and ¹²³I scintigraphy. However, since most of these cancers are papillary microcarcinomas with minimal clinical impact, further study is required before routine ultrasound (which may lead to surgery) can be recommended (Strong recommendation, moderate-quality evidence) (Ross, et al., 2016).

The ATA 2015 Management Guidelines for Adult Patients with Thyroid Nodules and Differentiated Thyroid Cancer lists these recommendations that include direct reference to ultrasonography:

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• Screening people with familial follicular cell–derived differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) may lead to an earlier diagnosis of thyroid cancer, but the panel cannot recommend for or against US screening since there is no evidence that this would lead to reduced morbidity or mortality. (No recommendation, Insufficient evidence)
• Serum thyrotropin (TSH) should be measured during the initial evaluation of a patient with a thyroid nodule. (Strong recommendation, Moderate-quality evidence) If the serum TSH is subnormal, a radionuclide (preferably I-123) thyroid scan should be performed. (Strong recommendation, Moderate-quality evidence)
• Thyroid sonography with survey of the cervical lymph nodes should be performed in all patients with known or suspected thyroid nodules. (Strong recommendation, High-quality evidence)
• FNA is the procedure of choice in the evaluation of thyroid nodules, when clinically indicated. (Strong recommendation, High-quality evidence) If the nodule is benign on cytology, further immediate diagnostic studies or treatment are not required (Strong recommendation, High-quality evidence) (Haugen, et al., 2016)

The ATA 2015 Management Guidelines for Children with Thyroid Nodules and Differentiated Thyroid Cancer lists these recommendations that include direct reference to ultrasonography:

• An annual physical examination is recommended in children at high risk for thyroid neoplasia. Additional imaging should be pursued if palpable nodules, thyroid asymmetry, and/or abnormal cervical lymphadenopathy are found on examination. Recommendation rating: B*
• In children with a history of radiation exposure to the thyroid, the data show that US can detect small thyroid nodules, but the panel is not yet convinced that detection of subclinical disease by US prior to a palpable abnormality on physical examination impacts long term outcomes. Therefore, routine screening US in high-risk children can neither be recommended for nor against until more data become available.

For patients with autoimmune thyroiditis, evaluation by an experienced thyroid ultrasonographer should be pursued in any patient with a suspicious thyroid examination (suspected nodule or significant gland asymmetry), especially if associated with palpable cervical lymphadenopathy. Recommendation rating: B

Benign lesions should be followed by serial US and undergo repeat FNA if suspicious features develop or the lesion continues to grow. Recommendation rating: B

A comprehensive neck US to interrogate all regions of the neck is required in order to optimize the preoperative surgical plan. Recommendation rating: A

Neck US is recommended in the follow-up of children with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Neck US should be performed at least 6 months after initial surgery and then at 6- to 12- month intervals for ATA Pediatric Intermediate- and High-Risk patients and at annual intervals for ATA Pediatric Low-Risk patients. Follow up beyond 5 years should be individualized based on recurrence risk. Recommendation rating: A

Children with incidental PTC should be managed similarly to other children with ATA Pediatric Low- Risk disease. Neck US is recommended to detect contralateral disease or disease in the regional lymph nodes. Recommendation rating: B

Ratings:

• A: Strongly recommends: The recommendation is based on good evidence that the service or intervention can improve important health outcomes. Evidence includes consistent results from well-designed, well-conducted studies in representative populations that directly assess effects on health outcomes.
• B: Recommends: The recommendation is based on fair evidence that the service or intervention can improve important health outcomes. The evidence is sufficient to determine effects on health outcomes, but the strength of the evidence is limited by the number, quality, or consistency of the individual studies; generalizability to routine practice; or indirect nature of the evidence on health outcomes.
• C: Recommends: The recommendation is based on expert opinion.
• D: Recommends against: The recommendation is based on expert opinion (Francis, et al., 2015).

National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology Head and Neck Cancer does not address ultrasound under Principles of Imaging (NCCN, V.1.2023 — December 20, 2022). The background, under Long term Evaluation of Recurrent Disease, states that neck ultrasound may be used to evaluate suspected nodal disease. The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology Thyroid carcinoma addresses ultrasound in the context of both diagnostic use as well as for guidance prior to and during biopsy (NCCN, V.1.2023 — March 24, 2023).

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

The 2023 AAP Clinical Report titled Congenital Hypothyroidism: Screening and Management states:

III. Imaging

1. Thyroid imaging is optional in the evaluation of infants with congenital hypothyroidism (CH) and may be performed if the results will influence clinical management. The decision to undertake imaging may be assisted by consultation with a pediatric endocrinologist.
2. Attempts to perform imaging should never delay the treatment of CH. Imaging with thyroid ultrasonography or scintigraphy may assist in establishing the etiology of CH. However, in many cases, imaging does not alter the clinical management of the patient before age 3 years. Accurate scintigraphy can only be performed when the TSH is elevated; it may be performed before initiating L-T4 treatment or within the first 2 to 3 days after initiating treatment. Scintigraphy can also be performed after 3 years of age during a trial off L-T4 therapy (Rose, et al., 2023).

The AAP 2015 Clinical report on the evaluation of suspected child physical abuse

states that ultrasound may be used in the initial evaluation of macrocephaly in young infants and can identify large extra-axial cerebrospinal fluid collections. Any abnormal ultrasound study requires more sophisticated follow-up with MRI. Ultrasound is not sensitive for identifying small subdural collections and is not the test of choice in the emergency setting (Christian, et al., 2015, Reaffirmed November 2021).

The AAP 2013 Clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis and management of acute bacterial sinusitis in children aged 1 to 18 years

states that Clinicians should not obtain imaging studies (plain films, contrast-enhanced computed tomography [CT], MRI, or ultrasonography) to distinguish acute bacterial sinusitis from viral URI (Evidence Quality: B [RCTs or diagnostic studies with minor limitations]; Strong Recommendation) (Wald, et al. 2013).

Endocrine Society

The Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline on Treatment of Hypercalcemia of Malignancy in Adults does not address ultrasound (El-Hajj Fuleihan, et al., 2023).

The Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline on Acromegaly "suggest a thyroid ultrasound if there is palpable thyroid nodularity" (Katznelson et. al., 2014).

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American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM)

The AIUM 2023 Practice Parameter for the Performance and Interpretation of Diagnostic Ultrasound of the Thyroid and Extracranial Head and Neck states that Indications for an ultrasound (US) examination of the thyroid and extracranial head and neck include, but are not limited to:

• Evaluation of the location and characteristics of palpable neck masses and thyroid nodules.
• Evaluation of abnormalities detected by other imaging examinations, such as thyroid nodules and/or other neck masses that satisfy criteria for a thyroid ultrasound examination that are detected on computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), PET/CT, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or other ultrasound examinations (eg, carotid duplex).
• Evaluation of the presence, size, location, and sonographic features of the thyroid gland.
• Evaluation of congenital hypothyroidism, including search for and characterization of orthotopic and/or ectopic thyroid tissue.
• Evaluation of patients at high risk for thyroid malignancy.
• Evaluation of the thyroid gland for suspicious focal pathology before neck surgery for nonthyroidal disease.
• Imaging of previously detected thyroid nodules that meet criteria for follow-up.
• Evaluation of the thyroid gland for suspicious focal pathology before radioiodine ablation of the gland for hyperthyroidism.
• Evaluation for regional nodal metastases in patients with proven or suspected thyroid carcinoma before surgical or other management.
• Evaluation for recurrent locoregional metastatic disease and/or nodal metastases after lobectomy, hemi- or total thyroidectomy for thyroid carcinoma.
• Evaluation of known or suspected thyroid cancer (usually papillary microcarcinoma not undergoing surgical resection) that is being monitored periodically with ultrasound active surveillance/ active monitoring for disease progression (eg, increase in nodule size, development of nodal metastatic disease, or extrathyroidal extension).
• Guidance for aspiration biopsy or other interventional procedure performed on thyroid abnormalities or other neck masses.
• Evaluation for causes of relevant laboratory abnormalities, such as abnormalities of parathyroid or thyroid function, elevation of thyroglobulin, hypercalcemia, and so on.

• Assessment of the location, number, and size of enlarged parathyroid glands in patients with known or suspected hyperparathyroidism, including patients who have undergone previous parathyroid surgery or ablative therapy who have recurrent signs or symptoms of hyperparathyroidism. Localization of autologous parathyroid gland implants.
• Evaluation of masses of the parotid and submandibular glands.
• Evaluation of non-neoplastic conditions of the parotid and submandibular glands, including, but not limited to, sialolithiasis, infection, and autoimmune processes.
• Nodal evaluation, including staging, evaluation of response to therapy, and monitoring after therapy, in select patients with head and neck malignancies, including, but not limited to, head and neck primary squamous cell carcinoma, primary salivary malignancy, and melanoma.
• Evaluation for supraclavicular nodal metastasis in patients with lung cancer or other infraclavicular primary malignancies at risk for metastasis.
• Nodal evaluation in pediatric patients with cervical lymphadenopathy, including, but not limited to, evaluation for necrosis and abscess formation in the setting of acute lymphadenitis.
• Imaging of ultrasound-detectable vascular abnormalities (such as vascular tumors and vascular malformations) of the head and neck.
• Evaluation of torticollis in neonates and infants; or

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Evaluation of adult and pediatric head and neck soft tissue masses including, but not limited to, thyroglossal duct cyst, branchial cleft cyst, lymphatic malformation, thymic ectopia/cyst, hemangioma, primary neck masses, including neurogenic tumors (neuroblastoma, schwannoma, neurofibroma), rhabdomyosarcoma, leukemia/lymphoma, metastatic disease (rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastoma, thyroid cancer, etc), and phlebectasia.

The AIUM 2021 Practice Parameter for the Performance of an Ultrasound Examination of the Extracranial Cerebrovascular System states that indications for an ultrasound examination of the extracranial carotid and vertebral arteries include, but are not limited to:

• Evaluation of patients with hemispheric neurologic symptoms, including stroke, transient ischemic attack, and amaurosis fugax
• Evaluation of patients with a cervical bruit
• Evaluation of pulsatile neck masses
• Preoperative evaluation of patients scheduled for major cardiovascular surgical procedures
• Evaluation of nonhemispheric or unexplained neurologic symptoms
• Follow-up evaluation of patients with known or documented carotid disease
• Postoperative or postintervention evaluation of patients following cerebrovascular revascularization, including carotid endarterectomy, stenting, or carotid to subclavian artery bypass graft Intraoperative monitoring of vascular surgery
• Evaluation for suspected subclavian steal syndrome4
• Evaluation for suspected carotid artery dissection,5 arteriovenous fistula, or pseudoaneurysm
• Evaluation of patients with carotid reconstruction after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation bypass
• Evaluation of patients with syncope, seizures, or dizziness
• Screening high-risk patients, including atherosclerosis elsewhere, history of head and neck radiation, known fibromuscular dysplasia, Takayasu arteritis, or other vasculopathy in another circulation
• Neck trauma
• Hollenhorst plaque visualized on retinal examination

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI)

The AAAAI 2014 Practice parameter update on the Diagnosis and management of Rhinosinusitis makes the following recommendations re imaging:

Summary Statement 4: Perform a CT scan when imaging of the sinuses is indicated. It is required before surgical intervention or when complications of rhinosinusitis are suspected. (A: Directly based on category* I evidence).

Summary Statements

Summary Statement 5: Radiographic imaging is recommended in a patient with unilateral CRS to exclude a tumor or anatomic defect or foreign body. (C: Directly based on category III evidence or extrapolated recommendation from category I or II evidence).

Summary Statement 6: Perform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) if soft tissue resolution is required, such as with a suspected tumor or in patients with complications. If a CT scan visualizes a soft tissue mass, then the patient should be referred to an ear, nose, and throat physician. (B: Directly based on category II evidence or extrapolated recommendation from category I evidence)

Category of Evidence:

• Ia Evidence from meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
• Ib Evidence from at least 1 randomized controlled trial
• IIa Evidence from at least 1 controlled study without randomization
• IIb Evidence from at least 1 other type of quasi-experimental study
• III Evidence from nonexperimental descriptive studies, such as comparative studies
• IV Evidence from expert committee reports or opinions or clinical experience of respected authorities or both (Peters, et al., 2014).

American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS)

The AAOMS 2017 Clinical Condition Statement on Temporomandibular Disorders states that the following are \'Appropriate\' diagnostic tests and examinations:

• Differential diagnostic blocks with local anesthetic.
• Therapeutic trial of medication (e.g., NSAID or muscles relaxants).
• Imaging studies (e.g., standard TMJ X-rays, CT, MRI).

The AAOMS states inappropriate diagnostic evaluations include sonography (AAOMS, 2017).

Use Outside of the US

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) published guidance on Thyroid disease: assessment and management (NG145, November 2019). Tests for people with confirmed thyrotoxicosis

• Adults: Only consider ultrasound for adults with thyrotoxicosis if they have a palpable thyroid nodule.
• Children and young people: Only offer ultrasound to children and young people with thyrotoxicosis if they have a palpable thyroid nodule or the cause of thyrotoxicosis remains unclear following thyroid autoantibody testing and technetium scanning.

Investigating thyroid enlargement

The following recommendations apply to adults, children and young people with normal thyroid function.

• Offer ultrasound to image palpable thyroid enlargement or focal nodularity in adults, children and young people with normal thyroid function if malignancy is suspected.
• Consider ultrasound of incidental findings on imaging if clinical factors suggest malignancy as a possibility.