Thyroid cytopathology: Bethesda System 2010

When considering the number of thyroid fine-needle aspirations performed not only in France but also in the world, then thyroid pathology, as well as Pap smears, represents the main pathology based on cytological diagnoses. Decisions of clinical follow-up or of surgical treatments will be done based on the cytological results. Until recently, neither official nor consensual terminology has been adopted despite classifications by experts having been proposed. The Bethesda terminology, published in 2010, in English, is linked with a percentage of risk cancer for each of its diagnostic category and with a suitable treatment. Furthermore, this terminology allows the possibility of standardized management for the patients and the opportunity of further assessment of the cytological diagnoses. Therefore, the French Society of Clinical Cytology has decided to publish this official French version of the Bethesda terminology. Its use is highly recommended.