The Diagnostic Dilemma of Metastatic Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma vs Tubercular Cervical Lymphadenitis

JOURNAL TITLE: Indian Journal of Endocrine Surgery and Research

Author
1. Seenu Vuthaluru
2. Neelam Ranwa
3. Brijesh K Singh
4. Gopal Puri
5. Reva S Sahu
6. Sonali Dixit
ISSN
DOI
10.5005/jp-journals-10088-11239
Volume
19
Issue
2
Publishing Year
2024
Pages
4
  • Article keywords
    Case report, Diagnostic dilemma, Metastasis, Papillary thyroid carcinoma, Tubercular lymphadenitis

    Abstract

    Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) often leads to cervical lymph node metastasis, occurring in 50–70% of cases. This high prevalence can sometimes cause clinicians to overlook other potential causes of cervical lymphadenopathy, especially in regions where tuberculosis (TB) is common. Distinguishing between these conditions can be challenging as they appear similar on ultrasound and cytology. However, examination of paraffin-embedded sections is the most effective way to differentiate between the two. We present a case series of three interesting patients where differentiation between the two conditions posed a diagnostic challenge. In two patients, the diagnosis was made after surgery, while in one patient, the diagnosis was made before surgery, preventing the patient from undergoing an unnecessary procedure.

    © 2019 Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers (P) LTD.   |   All Rights Reserved