Thyroid nodule pathophysiology: Difference between revisions

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==Overview==
==Overview==
[Pathogen name] is usually transmitted via the [transmission route] route to the human host.
Thyroid nodules may arise from different [[Cells (biology)|cells]] in the [[thyroid]] parenchyma. The [[pathogenesis]] of developing a thyroid nodule may differ based on the type of the [[nodule]], and whether it is [[malignant]] or [[benign]]. Basically thyroid nodules may develop secondary to [[hyperplasia]], [[mutations]] and resultant [[carcinoma]], excess [[colloid]] accumulation, or from[[inflammation]] of [[Thyroid gland|thyroid tissue]]. [[Genetic mutation]] is considered as one of the most important mechanisms of developing thyroid nodules, especially [[Thyroid Cancer|neoplastic thyroid nodules]]. Most of these [[mutations]] occur as [[Somatic mutation|somatic mutations]], while some may exhibit familial inheritance. The most important variety of familial [[thyroid cancers]] are caused by [[genetic mutations]], and are called familial non-[[medullary thyroid cancer]] (FNMTC). Other important [[genes]] related to thyroid nodule formation include, N&H ras, RET, Gsp, C-MET, TRK, EGF / [[EGFR|EGF-R]], and [[P53 gene|P53]].  
Following transmission/ingestion, the [pathogen] uses the [entry site] to invade the [cell name] cell.
On gross pathology, [feature1], [feature2], and [feature3] are characteristic findings of [disease name].
On microscopic histopathological analysis, [feature1], [feature2], and [feature3] are characteristic findings of [disease name].
[Disease name] is transmitted in [mode of genetic transmission] pattern.
[Disease/malignancy name] arises from [cell name]s, which are [cell type] cells that are normally involved in [function of cells].
Development of [disease name] is the result from multiple genetic mutations.
Genes involved in the pathogenesis of [disease name] include [gene1], [gene2], and [gene3].
The progression to [disease name] usually involves the [molecular pathway].
The pathophysiology of [disease name] depends on the histological subtype.
==Pathogenesis==
==Pathogenesis==
*Pathogenesis is the mechanism by which a certain factor causes disease (''pathos'' = disease, ''genesis'' = development). The term can also be used to describe the development of the disease, whether it is acute, chronic, or recurrent. It can also be used to describe whether the disease causes inflammation, malignancy,necrosis etc.
A summary of [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] nodule pathophysiology is presented in the slides below:
{{#widget:ThyroidNodulePatho}}
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Metab. Clin. North Am. |volume=26 |issue=4 |pages=777–800 |year=1997 |pmid=9429860 |doi= |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid9020075">{{cite journal |vauthors=Giordano C, Stassi G, De Maria R, Todaro M, Richiusa P, Papoff G, Ruberti G, Bagnasco M, Testi R, Galluzzo A |title=Potential involvement of Fas and its ligand in the pathogenesis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis |journal=Science |volume=275 |issue=5302 |pages=960–3 |year=1997 |pmid=9020075 |doi= |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid2196027">{{cite journal |vauthors=de los Santos ET, Keyhani-Rofagha S, Cunningham JJ, Mazzaferri EL |title=Cystic thyroid nodules. The dilemma of malignant lesions |journal=Arch. Intern. Med. |volume=150 |issue=7 |pages=1422–7 |year=1990 |pmid=2196027 |doi= |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid1987443">{{cite journal |vauthors=Greenspan FS |title=The problem of the nodular goiter |journal=Med. Clin. 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Pharmacol. |volume=8 |issue=1 |pages=102–19 |year=1988 |pmid=3285378 |doi= |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid8626858">{{cite journal |vauthors=Berndorfer U, Wilms H, Herzog V |title=Multimerization of thyroglobulin (TG) during extracellular storage: isolation of highly cross-linked TG from human thyroids |journal=J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab. |volume=81 |issue=5 |pages=1918–26 |year=1996 |pmid=8626858 |doi=10.1210/jcem.81.5.8626858 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid1036742">{{cite journal |vauthors=Bialas P, Marks S, Dekker A, Field JB |title=Hashimoto's thyroiditis presenting as a solitary functioning thyroid nodule |journal=J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab. |volume=43 |issue=6 |pages=1365–9 |year=1976 |pmid=1036742 |doi=10.1210/jcem-43-6-1365 |url=}}</ref>
* Thyroid nodules may arise from different [[Cell (biology)|cells]] in [[thyroid]] parenchyma. The [[pathogenesis]] of developing a thyroid nodule may differ based on the type of the [[nodule]], and whether it is [[malignant]] or [[benign]].
* Basically thyroid nodules may develop secondary to [[hyperplasia]], [[mutations]] and resultant [[carcinoma]], excess [[colloid]] accumulation, or from[[inflammation]] of [[Thyroid gland|thyroid tissue]].
 
=== (a) Hyperplastic nodules ===
* [[Hyperplasia|Hyperplastic]] nodule [[pathogenesis]] seems to start with an increase in [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] [[proliferation]], which lead to [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] [[hyperplasia]].
* Rapid [[Proliferation|thyroid proliferation]] mainly occur in response to certain stimulants.
* Stimulants mainly act through [[TSH]] mediated activity and production. Following the [[hyperplasia]] development phase, a new phase may begin, leading to a [[neoplasia]].
 
==== 1. TSH role in thyroid nodule formation ====
* Growth signals in [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid tissue]] start by a stimulant, that attaches to the [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] receptors. The following signals can be transmitted through 3 distinct pathways:
** [[Adenylate cyclase]]/[[Protein kinase A|protein kinase A system]]
** [[Phospholipase C|Phospholipase C pathways]]
** [[Phospholipase A2|Phospholipase A2 system]] ([[intracellular]] metabolism of [[prostaglandins]])
 
* The most important pathway for [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] growth is the activation of [[adenylate cyclase]]/[[Protein kinase A|protein kinase A system]]. Activation of [[Phospholipase c|phospholipase C]] and [[phospholipase A2]] have only a minor effect on [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] growth. 
* [[TSH]] acts as a stimulant by binding to the [[Thyrotropin receptor|TSH receptor]] and leads to activation of both the [[adenylate cyclase]] and [[phospholipase C]] pathways. As mentioned, the [[phospholipase C]] pathway has minor effects, and most of the [[TSH]] effect on [[Cell (biology)|cell]] growth is generated by [[adenylate cyclase]] pathway. The signal generated by the [[adenylate cyclase]] [[CAMP-dependent protein kinase|cAMP-dependent]] pathway is then [[Transduction|transduced]] in the [[nucleus]] where [[transcription factors]]–upon [[phosphorylation]]–induce the expression of [[Cyclic adenosine monophosphate|cAMP]]-inducible [[genes]]. It has been established that [[TSH]] has a main [[mitogenic]] role, through [[cAMP]], Gs [[proteins]] and [[Protein kinase A|protein kinase A,]] which activates the metabolic cascade leading to the stimulation of growth. 
* However, to produce [[hyperplasia]], overproduction of [[cAMP]] must be continuous, as it occurs in [[mutations]] constitutive of the [[genes]] which regulate [[cAMP]] production. 
* Constitutive [[Cyclic adenosine monophosphate|cAMP]] overproduction has been demonstrated to be due to [[Point mutations|point mutation]] of the [[Thyrotropin receptor|TSH receptor]] or [[G proteins|Gs protein]]. 
* Constitutive [[Cyclic adenosine monophosphate|cAMP]] overproduction not only stimulates growth but also function. 
* [[Hyperplastic]] thyroid nodule [[pathogenesis]] can be divided into 2 phases: 
 
==== 2. Thyroid overgrowth stimulants: ====
[[Thyroid Gland|Thyroid]] normally has a low [[Proliferation|proliferative]] activity, although it can start [[proliferation]] rapidly in response to certain stimulants. Stimulants mainly act through [[Thyroid-stimulating hormone|TSH]] mediated activity and production. The following stimulants appear to have the most important role in [[pathogenesis]] of [[hyperplastic]] nodules:<ref name="pmid2921306">{{cite journal |vauthors=Gaitan E, Lindsay RH, Reichert RD, Ingbar SH, Cooksey RC, Legan J, Meydrech EF, Hill J, Kubota K |title=Antithyroid and goitrogenic effects of millet: role of C-glycosylflavones |journal=J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab. |volume=68 |issue=4 |pages=707–14 |year=1989 |pmid=2921306 |doi=10.1210/jcem-68-4-707 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid1696490">{{cite journal |vauthors=Gaitan E |title=Goitrogens in food and water |journal=Annu. Rev. Nutr. |volume=10 |issue= |pages=21–39 |year=1990 |pmid=1696490 |doi=10.1146/annurev.nu.10.070190.000321 |url=}}</ref>
* [[Iodine]] deficiency:
** Effects directly or indirectly 
** The most potent stimulator replication of the [[Cell (biology)|cells]] of [[thyroid gland]] 
** Mechanism of action:
*** Acts as an initiator for TSH rise
*** May enhance the effect of other chemicals that induce a rise in [[TSH]] by inducing the promotor overactivity
*** The most important reason of high [[prevalence]] of [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] hyperplasia and nodules in [[iodine]]-deficient areas
* Industrial chemicals:
** [[DDT]]
** [[Polychlorinated biphenyl|Polychlorinated biphenyls]]
** [[Pesticides]]
* Goitrogens:
** Complex [[anions]] and inorganic [[atoms]] ([[iodine]], [[lithium]], CLO4–, TcO4–, BF4–)
** [[Thiocyanate]] (SCN–)
** Goitrin, isolated in plants of the [[genus]] Brassica
** [[Aniline]] derivatives ([[sulfonamides]], [[tolbutamide]], [[sulfaguanidine]], [[sulfamethoxazole]], etc.)
** [[Phenol]] derivatives and polyhydroxyphenols
** [[Flavonoids]]:
*** [[Thyroid peroxidase|TPO]] inhibitors
*** Also act on [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] metabolism by interacting with the [[nuclear]] [[receptor]] for [[thyroid hormones]]
* [[Antithyroid]] drugs:
** Thionamides that are used in the treatment of [[hyperthyroidism]]
* [[Tobacco]]:
** May be the reason of high [[prevalence]] of [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] [[hyperplasia]] and nodules in [[iodine]]-sufficient areas 
 
* [[Thyroid]] [[stromal cells]] interact with [[thyroid]] follicular [[Cells (biology)|cells]] by cytokines. Inappropriate [[cytokine]] activities also seem to be related to [[TSH]] overproduction and [[thyroid]] hyperplastic nodule formation. The most important [[cytokines]] that may lead to differentiation or inhibition of [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] growth are:
** [[TGF beta|TGFβ]]
** [[Interferon|IFNγ]]
** [[Interleukin 6|IL-6]]
** [[Somatostatin]]
 
===== 3. Hyperplasia development phase: =====
* [[Thyroid Gland|Thyroid]] [[Cells (biology)|cells]] produce the [[angiogenic]] [[vascular endothelial growth factor]]/[[vascular]] permeability factor ([[VEGF]]/VPF) sensitive to [[TSH]] stimulation.
* The [[vascular]] growth factor induces [[neovascularization]] by binding to specific receptors on [[endothelial cells]] and stimulating new [[Blood vessel|vessel]] production.
* In response, [[endothelial cells]] produce [[growth factors]] that increase [[thyroid]] [[cell]] [[proliferation]] and lead to [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] [[hyperplasia]].
* [[Neovascularization]] in [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] matrix is accompanied by the production of [[Proteolytic enzyme|proteolytic enzymes]], which facilitate the expansion of [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] tissue into the [[extracellular matrix]].
 
===== 4. Neoplasia development phase: =====
* Each follicle is composed of different clones of [[Cell (biology)|cells]] ([[polyclonal]]), but during nodule formation they replicate in a simultaneous and coordinated manner, so each follicle of the nodule reproduces the same heterogeneity of the mother follicle.
* When a [[neoplasm]] arises in the nodule, then the [[Neoplastic disease|neoplastic]] follicle shows a [[monoclonal]] pattern, suggesting that [[cancer]] arises from a single [[cell]]. 
 
* Activation of [[oncogenes]] is considered the underlying event leading to uncontrolled [[cell]] growth.
 
=== (b) Neoplastic nodules ===
* [[Neoplastic disease|Neoplastic]] nodules development mainly involve the activation of [[Proto oncogenes|proto-oncogenes]] as the underlying event leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
* [[Proto-oncogene]] activation is associated with [[thyroid adenoma]], [[hyperplasia]], and [[malignancies]].
* [[Thyroid gland]] is made up of different follicles, and each follicle is composed of different clones of [[Cells (biology)|cells]] ([[polyclonal]]). During nodule formation, cells replicate in a coordinated fashion simultanously, so each follicle of the nodule shares the same heterogenity with other [[Cell (biology)|cells]].
* [[Hyperplasia|Hyperplastic]] thyroid nodules are considered a [[risk factor]] for the development of [[neoplasia]], as these cells may express [[neoplastic]] potential during their rapid [[proliferation]] phase.
* During [[neoplasm]] formation in the nodule, the [[neoplastic]] follicle mostly shows a [[monoclonal]] pattern. These findings may indicate that [[neoplasia]] arises from a single [[cell]] [[genetic mutation]].  The most important [[oncogenes]] related to thyroid neoplasia development are mentioned in the genetic table below.<ref name="pmid19209125">{{cite journal |vauthors=Taccaliti A, Boscaro M |title=Genetic mutations in thyroid carcinoma |journal=Minerva Endocrinol. |volume=34 |issue=1 |pages=11–28 |year=2009 |pmid=19209125 |doi= |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid10834397">{{cite journal |vauthors=Vecchio G, Santoro M |title=Oncogenes and thyroid cancer |journal=Clin. Chem. Lab. Med. |volume=38 |issue=2 |pages=113–6 |year=2000 |pmid=10834397 |doi=10.1515/CCLM.2000.017 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid7629379">{{cite journal |vauthors=Fusco A, Santoro M, Grieco M, Carlomagno F, Dathan N, Fabien N, Berlingieri MT, Li Z, De Franciscis V, Salvatore D |title=RET/PTC activation in human thyroid carcinomas |journal=J. Endocrinol. Invest. |volume=18 |issue=2 |pages=127–9 |year=1995 |pmid=7629379 |doi=10.1007/BF03349720 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid8806699">{{cite journal |vauthors=Fugazzola L, Pierotti MA, Vigano E, Pacini F, Vorontsova TV, Bongarzone I |title=Molecular and biochemical analysis of RET/PTC4, a novel oncogenic rearrangement between RET and ELE1 genes, in a post-Chernobyl papillary thyroid cancer |journal=Oncogene |volume=13 |issue=5 |pages=1093–7 |year=1996 |pmid=8806699 |doi= |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid8918855">{{cite journal |vauthors=Eng C, Clayton D, Schuffenecker I, Lenoir G, Cote G, Gagel RF, van Amstel HK, Lips CJ, Nishisho I, Takai SI, Marsh DJ, Robinson BG, Frank-Raue K, Raue F, Xue F, Noll WW, Romei C, Pacini F, Fink M, Niederle B, Zedenius J, Nordenskjöld M, Komminoth P, Hendy GN, Mulligan LM |title=The relationship between specific RET proto-oncogene mutations and disease phenotype in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2. International RET mutation consortium analysis |journal=JAMA |volume=276 |issue=19 |pages=1575–9 |year=1996 |pmid=8918855 |doi= |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid1468509">{{cite journal |vauthors=Goretzki PE, Simon D, Röher HD |title=G-protein mutations in thyroid tumors |journal=Exp. Clin. Endocrinol. |volume=100 |issue=1-2 |pages=14–6 |year=1992 |pmid=1468509 |doi=10.1055/s-0029-1211167 |url=}}</ref>
 
* Environmental factors can play an important role in triggering the [[oncogene]] [[mutation]]. The most important carcinogens involved in the [[pathogenesis]] of [[neoplastic]] thyroid nodules are:
** [[Thioamide]] compounds
*** [[Thiourea]]
*** [[Methimazole]]
*** Ethylenethiourea (ETU)
*** [[Thiouracil]]
*** [[Propylthiouracil]]
** Aminotriazole: [[Herbicide]]
** Acetylaminofluorene (AAF)
** Use: [[Insecticide]]
** Oxydianiline (ODA)
** Use: Azo-Dye
** [[Methylene]] [[Benzenamine, 3-(trifluoromethyl)-|benzenamine]]
** Use: Dye intermediate
** [[Nitrosamine|Nitrosamines]]
** [[Nitrosourea|Nitrosoureas]] (NMU), (NBU), (ENU)
** Use: derivatives (BCNU, CCNU, MeCCNU) are drugs against [[Tumor|tumors]]
** [[Streptozocin]] (naturally occurring [[nitrosourea]]) is used in the treatment of islet-cell [[carcinoma]] of the [[pancreas]]
 
==== Papillary thyroid carcinoma ====
* The most important [[pathogenic]] factor involved in developing [[papillary thyroid cancer]] is an [[intracellular]] signaling pathway called [[Mitogen-activated protein kinase|MAPK]] pathyway ([[Mitogen-activated protein kinase|Mitogen-activated protein kinases]]), also known as ERK pathway ([[Extracellular signal-regulated kinases|extracellular signal-regulated kinase]]). After [[antigen]] binding to [[tyrosine]] receptors, [[Mitogen-activated protein kinase|MAPK]] is translocated into the [[Cell nucleus|nucleus]]. Receptor activation leads to [[cell division]], after [[phosphorylation]] by MEK (a [[serine]]/[[threonine]] [[kinase]]).
* Other steps leading to [[Mitogen-activated protein kinase|MAPK]] [[phosphorylation]] include [[phosphorylation]] of [[RAS]] which activates [[BRAF]], a [[serine]]/[[threonine]] [[kinase]] followed by MEK and [[Mitogen-activated protein kinase|MAPK]] [[phosphorylation]].
* In [[Papillary thyroid cancer|papillary thyroid carcinoma]], a [[somatic mutation]] may lead to activation of this linear signaling cascade.
* As a result, there will be increased [[Transcription (genetics)|transcription]] of [[nuclear]] [[proteins]], which lead to un-regulated activity and reproduction of [[cancerous]] [[Cells (biology)|cells]]. This implies that any single alteration is sufficient to play an early role in tumorigenesis.<ref name="pmid11390647">{{cite journal |vauthors=Melillo RM, Santoro M, Ong SH, Billaud M, Fusco A, Hadari YR, Schlessinger J, Lax I |title=Docking protein FRS2 links the protein tyrosine kinase RET and its oncogenic forms with the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling cascade |journal=Mol. Cell. Biol. |volume=21 |issue=13 |pages=4177–87 |year=2001 |pmid=11390647 |pmc=87079 |doi=10.1128/MCB.21.13.4177-4187.2001 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid16946010">{{cite journal |vauthors=Ciampi R, Nikiforov YE |title=RET/PTC rearrangements and BRAF mutations in thyroid tumorigenesis |journal=Endocrinology |volume=148 |issue=3 |pages=936–41 |year=2007 |pmid=16946010 |doi=10.1210/en.2006-0921 |url=}}</ref>
'''Abbrevaitions:'''
 
'''ERK:''' [[extracellular signal-regulated kinase]]; '''MAPK:''' [[mitogen-activated protein kinase]]
 
=== (c) Colloid and cystic nodules ===
 
==== 1. Colloid nodules  ====
* The colloid nodules consist of colloid droplets and [[thyroglobulin]] vesicles.
* [[Thyroid gland]] keeps a balance between colloid and [[thyroglobulin]] production by regulating the secretion of [[thyroglobulin]] into colloid and reabsorption of colloid into thyroid follicular cells. This regulation is maintained by macro-[[pinocytosis]] ([[Pseudopod|pseudopods]]) and micro-[[pinocytosis]] ([[microvilli]]).
* Any imbalance between secretion and reabsorption of [[thyroglobulin]] leads to a disruption of the equilibrium, and produces a colloid appeared thyroid nodule. These nodules may also be produced as a defect of intraluminal thyroglobulin reabsorption. 
 
==== 2. Iodine related nodules pathogenesis: ====
[[Iodine]] excess can lead to colloid nodules in [[thyroid gland]], leading to a colloid [[goitre]]:
* [[Endocytosis]] inhibition: High dosage of [[iodine]] may lead to inhibition of the [[protease]] activity of [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] [[Lysosome|lysosomes]] thereby inhibiting [[endocytosis]]
* [[Exocytosis]] inhibition: [[Iodine]] reduces the expression of the [[TSH receptor]] on the surface of [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] cells thereby inhibiting and decreasing colloid reabsorption
* [[Iodine]] excess in combination with [[Thyroid-stimulating hormone|TSH]] over activity may lead to colloid goitre
Another mechanism that may lead to colloid goitre formation is loss of [[thyroglobulin]] packaging ability, that may lead to an enormous enlargement of the follicles and flattening of the [[epithelium]].
 
==== 3. Cystic thyroid nodules ====
Cystic thyroid nodules may be classified into the following types:
* [[Necrosis|Necrotic]] cystic nodules:
** May be due to a relative deficiency of [[blood]] supply:
*** Inadequate [[blood]] supply for [[neoplastic]] growth
*** Imbalance between [[angiogenesis]] and [[Cell (biology)|cell]] growth
*** Compression of new [[Blood vessel|vessels]] due to mass effect, leading to [[Cell (biology)|cell]] damage and [[necrosis]]
** [[Hyperplasia|Hyperplastic]] thyroid nodules may proceed towards [[necrosis]], colliquation, and [[pseudocyst]] formation
* [[Serum]]-like cystic nodules:
** May be related to [[autoimmunity]]
* [[Apoptotic]] cystic nodules:
** Cysts that may be related to normal [[cellular]] [[apoptosis]] or [[neoplastic]]/infected [[cellular]] [[apoptosis]]
* [[Vascular]] growth factor related cystic nodules:
** Cyst formation may be the result of an increased concentration of [[Vascular endothelial growth factor|VEGF]]/VPF inside the cystic area
** [[VEGF]]/VPF lead to stimulation of [[vascular permeability]] and promoting the accumulation of [[fluids]] in the cysts
** [[Vascular endothelial growth factor|VEGF]]/VPF are particularly found in the cystic fluid of rapidly enlarging or recurrent cysts
 
=== (d) Thyroiditic nodule ===
Nodular [[lymphocytic thyroiditis]] almost always present in combination with other thyroiditic diseases. They can also present as a part of [[infection]]. It has been shown that the ability of [[super-antigens]] (SAgs) to activate the [[immune system]] may play a role in the course of [[autoimmune disorders]]. In most of these cases, the mechanism of nodular lesion is the same as the mechanism of the main disease, implying that the thyroid nodule is a part of normal disease pattern. Many of these nodules are not identifiable based on [[Physical examination|physical exam]], and are detected during [[thyroid]] [[scintigraphy]]. The most important thyroiditic diseases that may present as [[lymphocytic]] nodular [[thyroid]] are:
* Local [[infections]]:
** [[Pyogenic infection]]
**[[Tuberculosis]]
**[[Parasites]]
* [[De Quervain's thyroiditis|Subacute de Quervain’s]] thyroiditis
* [[Riedel's thyroiditis|Fibrosing (Riedel’s) thyroiditis]]
* [[Plasma cell]] [[granuloma]]
* [[Plasmacytoma]]
* Primary [[amyloid]] [[tumor]] and [[amyloidosis]]
* [[Thymoma]]
* [[Primary thyroid lymphoma]]
** Thyroiditic nodule due to [[Diffuse large B cell lymphoma|diffuse B-cell]] infiltration into [[lymphoma]] presented areas
* [[Histiocytosis X]]
* [[Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid|Medullary carcinoma]]
* [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|Papillary carcinoma]]
** Thyroiditic nodule may be due to an [[immune response]] to some abnormal [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] antigen expressed in the [[tumor]]
 
==Genetics==
==Genetics==
*Some diseases are genetic, and have particular inheritance patterns, and express different phenotypes.
[[Genetic mutation]] is considered as one of the most important mechanisms of developing thyroid nodules, especially [[Thyroid Cancer|neoplastic thyroid nodules]]. Most of these [[mutations]] occur as [[Somatic mutation|somatic mutations]], while some may occur in a familial order. The most important category of familial [[thyroid cancers]] are due to [[genetic mutations]], and are called familial non-[[medullary thyroid cancer]] (FNMTC), with the following features:
*The effect that genetics may have on the pathophysiology of a disease can be described in this section.
* Rare group of [[Cancer|cancers]]
* Related to other non-medullary [[tumors]]
* Inheritance: [[Autosomal dominant]] with [[incomplete penetrance]] and variable expressivity
* Affected patients in an earlier age
* Associated with:
** More [[benign]] thyroid nodules
** Multifocal disease
** A higher rate of locoregional recurrence
 
==== The most important genetic mutations associated with thyroid neoplasia development ====
{| class="wikitable"
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Oncogenes and growth factors
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Gene mechanism
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Mutation effect
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Neoplasia
|-
!''N&H [[Ras oncogene|ras]]''
|
* [[Ras oncogene|Ras]]-constitutively bound to [[GTPase activating protein|GTPase-activating protein]] (GAP)
|
* Activation of [[adenylate cyclase]] and [[calcium]] channels
|
* [[Adenomas]]
* [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|Papillary carcinoma]]
* [[Follicular carcinoma of the Thyroid|Follicular carcinoma]]
* [[Anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid|Anaplastic carcinoma]]
|-
![[RET proto-oncogene|RET]]
|
* Encodes a receptor for glial-derived neurotrophic GF
* Fusion proteins with constitutive thyrosine [[kinase]] activities
* Dimerization of RET thyrosine kinase receptors (TRK)
|
* [[Mitogenic]] through constitutive activation of TKR
* Increased auto-[[phosphorylation]] and alteration of substrate specificity
|
* [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|Papillary carcinoma]]
* [[MEN 2a|MEN 2A]]
* FMTC
* [[MEN 2B]]
|-
!Gsp
|
* Ribosylated GS-α at [[arginine]] 201
|
* Impairing of [[GTPase]] activity
|
* Hot adenomas
|-
![[C-MET]] (α and β subunit)
|
* Increased receptors for HGF/SF
|
* Enhancement of receptor [[kinase]] activity
|
* [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|Papillary carcinoma]]
|-
![[TRK]]
|
* Receptor for [[nerve]] [[growth factor]]
|
* Mitogen activated TK cascade
|
* [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|Papillary carcinoma]]
|-
!EGF / [[EGFR|EGF-R]]
|
* Competence factor in [[cell cycle]]
|
* Transition through [[G0 phase|G0-G1 phase]]
|
* [[Anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid|Anaplastic carcinoma]]
|-
![[P53 (protein)|P53]]
|
* Lack of activation of p21/Waf l [[gene]] expression
|
* Loss of regulation at the critical [[G1 phase|G1]] to [[S phase]]
|
* [[Anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid|Anaplastic carcinoma]]
* [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|Papillary carcinoma]]
* [[Follicular carcinoma of the Thyroid|Follicular carcinoma]]
|}
 
==Associated Conditions==
==Associated Conditions==
*Conditions associated with the disease can be detailed in this section.
Preoperative [[TSH|serum TSH]] is an independent [[risk factor]] for predicting malignancy in a thyroid nodule, and is associated with:<ref name="pmid18160464">{{cite journal |vauthors=Haymart MR, Repplinger DJ, Leverson GE, Elson DF, Sippel RS, Jaume JC, Chen H |title=Higher serum thyroid stimulating hormone level in thyroid nodule patients is associated with greater risks of differentiated thyroid cancer and advanced tumor stage |journal=J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab. |volume=93 |issue=3 |pages=809–14 |year=2008 |pmid=18160464 |pmc=2266959 |doi=10.1210/jc.2007-2215 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid23731273">{{cite journal |vauthors=McLeod DS, Cooper DS, Ladenson PW, Ain KB, Brierley JD, Fein HG, Haugen BR, Jonklaas J, Magner J, Ross DS, Skarulis MC, Steward DL, Maxon HR, Sherman SI |title=Prognosis of differentiated thyroid cancer in relation to serum thyrotropin and thyroglobulin antibody status at time of diagnosis |journal=Thyroid |volume=24 |issue=1 |pages=35–42 |year=2014 |pmid=23731273 |pmc=3887423 |doi=10.1089/thy.2013.0062 |url=}}</ref>
*Higher differentiated [[thyroid cancer]] stage
*Gross extrathyroidal extension
*[[Neck]] [[Lymph node|node]] [[metastases]]
 
==Gross Pathology==
==Gross Pathology==
*Gross pathology refers to macroscopic or larger scale manifestations of disease in organs, tissues and body cavities. The term is commonly used by pathologist to refer to diagnostically useful findings made during the gross examination portion of surgical specimen processing or an autopsy.
* On [[gross pathology]], cystic lesions, multiple or a single nodule, and encapsulated lesions are the most important and prevalent characteristic findings of thyroid nodules.
*This section is a good place to include pictures. Search for copyleft images on The Pathology Wiki [http://pathinfo.wikia.coom/wiki/Pathology_Resident_Wiki <nowiki>[1]</nowiki>] and Ask Dr. Wiki [http://askdrwiki.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=Category:Pathology <nowiki>[2]</nowiki>].
* On [[gross pathology]], [[follicular thyroid adenoma]] may present as a big lesion with thick capsule.
 
== Microscopic Pathology ==
Diagnostic speciemen feature: the presence of at least six follicular cell groups, each containing 10–15 cells derived from at least two aspirates of a nodule<ref name="pmid4071393">{{cite journal |vauthors=Walfish PG, Strawbridge HT, Rosen IB |title=Management implications from routine needle biopsy of hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules |journal=Surgery |volume=98 |issue=6 |pages=1179–88 |year=1985 |pmid=4071393 |doi= |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid19888858">{{cite journal |vauthors=Cibas ES, Ali SZ |title=The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology |journal=Thyroid |volume=19 |issue=11 |pages=1159–65 |year=2009 |pmid=19888858 |doi=10.1089/thy.2009.0274 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid27078145">{{cite journal |vauthors=Nikiforov YE, Seethala RR, Tallini G, Baloch ZW, Basolo F, Thompson LD, Barletta JA, Wenig BM, Al Ghuzlan A, Kakudo K, Giordano TJ, Alves VA, Khanafshar E, Asa SL, El-Naggar AK, Gooding WE, Hodak SP, Lloyd RV, Maytal G, Mete O, Nikiforova MN, Nosé V, Papotti M, Poller DN, Sadow PM, Tischler AS, Tuttle RM, Wall KB, LiVolsi VA, Randolph GW, Ghossein RA |title=Nomenclature Revision for Encapsulated Follicular Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Paradigm Shift to Reduce Overtreatment of Indolent Tumors |journal=JAMA Oncol |volume=2 |issue=8 |pages=1023–9 |year=2016 |pmid=27078145 |pmc=5539411 |doi=10.1001/jamaoncol.2016.0386 |url=}}</ref><ref name="pmid19888858">{{cite journal |vauthors=Cibas ES, Ali SZ |title=The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology |journal=Thyroid |volume=19 |issue=11 |pages=1159–65 |year=2009 |pmid=19888858 |doi=10.1089/thy.2009.0274 |url=}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
!classification
! colspan="2" rowspan="2" align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |[[Cytology]] classification
!FNA cytology
! rowspan="2" align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Also referred to as:
!Gross pathology
! colspan="2" align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Efficient diagnosis
!Microscopic pathology
! rowspan="2" align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |May be seen in:
! rowspan="2" align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |FNA cytology
|-
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |<small>FNA</small>
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |<small><small><small>Surgical biopsy</small></small></small>
|-
|-
|Benign
! rowspan="5" |Follicular lesions 
![[Benign]] (macrofollicular)
|
* Adenomatoid [[adenoma]]
* [[Hyperplastic]] [[adenoma]]
* Colloid [[adenoma]]
| +
|
|
|
*Macrofollicular
*Normal [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] [[Tissue (biology)|tissue]]
*Adenomatoid/hyperplastic nodules
*Sporadic nodular [[goiter]]
*[[Monoclonal]] macrofollicular tumors
*[[Hyperplasia|Hyperplastic]] nodules
*Colloid adenomas (most common)
*Colloid adenomas (most common)
*Nodular goiter
*Lymphocytic thyroiditis
*Granulomatous thyroiditis
|
|
*May have areas of cystic degeneration with cellular debris and [[hemosiderin]]-laden [[macrophages]]
*[[Cellular]] characteristics:
**Small and flat
**Uniform in size
**Non-crowded
**Smeared colloid is seen in the background
**Follicle size may vary, with a few microfollicles interspersed among the macrofollicles, especially if the sample was obtained from an area close to the capsule of the lesion
*Colloid:
**May smear across the slide or occasionally aggregated into droplets due to disruption of follicles during [[FNA]]
**Stains blue on a [[Papanicolaou smear|Papanicolaou]] stain
**May be abundant in the background of macrofollicular lesions
|-
![[Follicular neoplasm of thyroid|Follicular neoplasm]]/microfollicular 
|
* [[Cellular]] [[adenoma]]
* Indeterminate [[adenoma]]
* Trabecular [[adenoma]]
|
|
| +
|
* Follicular [[adenomas]]
* Follicular [[carcinomas]]
* Follicular variant of [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|papillary cancer]]
* Occasionally from autonomously functioning thyroid nodules
|
* Well-developed microfollicles
* Crowding of cells
** May form clusters and clumps
* Scant colloid
* Varying nuclear atypia
* Varying cellular pleomorphism
* Follicular carcinoma:
** Focal microscopic invasion
* [[Cellular]] or trabecular adenomas:
** Lesions with less definite or no follicle formation
** May show vascular or capsule invasion
|-
!Follicular lesion of undetermined significance (FLUS)
| rowspan="2" |
| rowspan="2" | +
| rowspan="2" |
| rowspan="2" |
* Commonly, especially in nodular [[goiters]]
| rowspan="2" |
* FLUS:
** The lesion has approximately equal number of macrofollicular fragments and microfollicles
* AUS:
** [[Cells (biology)|Cells]] with mild [[nuclear]] atypia
* Mostly due to compromised speciemens:
** Poor fixation or obscuring [[blood]] (FLUS)
|-
|-
|Follicular lesion of undetermined significance
!Atypia of undetermined significance (AUS)
|-
![[Hurthle cells|Hürthle cells]] 
|
|
*Mixed macro- and microfollicular nodules
* Oncocytes
* Askanazy cells
* [[Oxyphil cell|Oxyphil cells]]
| +
|
|
* Focal [[Hurthle cell carcinoma|Hürthle-cell]] change:
** Degenerating macrofollicular lesions
** [[Hashimoto's thyroiditis]]
|
* Large [[polyclonal]] [[Cells (biology)|cells]]
* [[Oxyphil cell|Oxyphil]] [[cytoplasm]]
* Considered [[benign]] if there is no evidence of [[vascular]] or capsular invasion
* Considered [[malignant]] if invasion is present
** [[Hurthle cell carcinoma|Hürthle-cell]] [[cancer]]
** [[Follicular cancer of the thyroid|Follicular cancer]]
** [[Oxyphil cell]] type [[cancer]]
|-
! colspan="2" |[[Papillary thyroid cancer|Papillary cancer]]
|
* The follicular variant of papillary cancer
|
| +
|[[Epithelioid]] [[giant cells]]
*[[Papillary thyroid cancer|Papillary cancer]]
*Degenerating areas of macrofollicular nodules
*[[Subacute granulomatous thyroiditis]]
[[Psammoma body|Psammoma bodies]]
* [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|Papillary carcinoma]]
* [[Benign]] [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] lesions
|
*Large [[Cells (biology)|cells]] and [[nuclei]] 
*Ground glass appearance of [[cytoplasm]] 
*[[Nuclei]] appearance:
**Clefts 
**Grooves 
**Holes 
**Intranuclear [[cytoplasmic]] inclusions = Orphan Annie eye
**Small [[nucleoli]] 
*Psammoma bodies
**Small laminated calcifications
*Sticky colloid
**Colloid "stick" to debris and cell clusters, instead of smearing across the slide
*[[Epithelioid]] [[giant cells]]
**Can also be seen in:
***Degenerating areas of macrofollicular nodules
***[[Subacute granulomatous thyroiditis]]
|-
! colspan="3" |[[Medullary carcinoma of thyroid|Medullary cancer]] 
|
| +
|
* Medullary cancer
|
*Spindle-shaped cells
*Frequently [[pleomorphic]] [[Cells (biology)|cells]] without follicle development
*Supporting [[stroma]] may frequently stains for [[amyloid]]
*Red [[cytoplasmic]] granules
*Eccentrically placed [[nuclei]]
*Slightly granular [[cytoplasm]] that may be configured as a tear drop or [[cytoplasmic]] tail
|-
! colspan="3" |[[Anaplastic thyroid cancer]]
| +
|
|
* [[Anaplastic thyroid cancer]]
|
* [[Spindle cells]]
* Pleomorphic [[giant cell]]
* Squamoid
* [[Mitosis]]
** Numerous [[mitotic]] figures
** Atypical [[mitoses]]
* Extensive [[necrosis]]
|}
 
*Both [[polyclonal]] and [[monoclonal]] nodules appear similar on [[fine needle aspiration]] (FNA) (macrofollicular) and are [[benign]]
*The diagnosis of [[Follicular cancer of the thyroid|follicular cancer]] can not be made based on [[FNA]], because vascular or capsular invasion is required to make the diagnosis of [[Follicular cancer of the thyroid|follicular cancer]]. 8420446
 
 
==== Neoplastic thyroid nodules subclassification microscopic pathology: ====
{| class="wikitable"
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Neoplasm
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Subclass
! align="center" style="background:#4479BA; color: #FFFFFF;" + |Features
!
|-
| rowspan="4" |Follicular [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] lesions
|Minimally invasive [[follicular carcinoma]]
|
* Only invasion of the capsule of the [[tumor]] without [[vascular]] invasion
|
|-
|Widely invasive [[follicular carcinoma]]
|
*Extensive invasion of the [[tumor]] capsule
*A multinodular [[tumor]] without a well-defined capsule invading the normal [[Thyroid Gland|thyroid]] surrounding the [[tumor]]
*Extensive [[vascular]] invasion (>4 foci of angioinvasion)
|
|-
|Encapsulated follicular variant of [[papillary thyroid cancer]]
| rowspan="2" |
| rowspan="2" |
* Minor [[vascular]] invasion (≤4 foci of angioinvasion within the [[tumor]] or capsule of the [[tumor]]) with or without capsular invasion
|
|-
|Infiltrative variant of [[papillary thyroid cancer]]
|
|-
| rowspan="8" |[[Papillary thyroid cancer]]
|Tall cell variant
|
* [[Tumor]] [[Cells (biology)|cells]] with [[eosinophilic]] [[cytoplasm]] that are twice as tall as they are wide
* The primary [[Tumor|tumors]] tend to be large 
* Often invasive, that many patients have both local and distant [[metastases]] at the time of diagnosis 
|
|
|-
|-
|Atypia of undetermined significance
|Insular varient
|
|
*Atypical cells
* Solid nests of tumor, often separated by fibrous bands, but the [[tumor cell]] nuclei have the same characteristics as do the [[nuclei]] of classical [[Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid|papillary cancers]]
|
|
|-
|-
|Follicular neoplasm
|Columnar variant
|
|
*Microfollicular nodules
* Elongated cells with palisading [[nuclei]]
**Hurthle cell lesions
|
| rowspan="2" |
|-
|[[Hurthle cell carcinoma|Hürthle]] or [[Hurthle cell carcinoma|oxyphilic]] variant
|
* Cellular features of [[Hurthle cell carcinoma|Hürthle cell carcinomas]] but cells that are arranged in papillary formations.
|
|-
|Clear cell variant
|
* Clear cell view with clear [[cytoplasm]]
* Must be distinguished from [[Clear cell tumor|clear cell carcinomas]] of other organs such as the [[kidney]] or [[colon]] that have [[metastasized]] to the [[thyroid]]
|
|
|-
|-
|Suspicious for a follicular neoplasm
|Diffuse sclerosing variant
|
|
*Suspicious for Hurthle cell neoplasm
* Diffuse involvement of the [[thyroid]]
* Stromal [[fibrosis]]
* Prominent [[lymphocytic]] infiltration
|
|
|-
|-
|Malignant
|Cribriform morular variant
|
|
*PTC (most common)
* Prominent [[cribriform]] pattern with solid and [[Spindle cells|spindle cell]] areas as well as [[squamous]] morules
*MTC
* Often associated with [[familial adenomatous polyposis]]
*Anaplastic carcinoma
|
*High-grade metastatic cancers
|-
|Hobnail variant
|
|
* Multifocal with variably sized complex papillary structures lined by [[Cells (biology)|cells]]
* [[Cells (biology)|Cells]] with increased [[nuclear]] to [[Cytoplasm|cytoplasmatic]] ratios
* Apically placed [[nuclei]] that lead to a surface bulge (hobnail appearance)
*: 19956062
|
|
|}
|}


==Microscopic Pathology==
*Microscopic pathology is the disease process as it occurs at the microscopic level.
*This section is a good place to include pictures. Search for copyleft images on The Pathology Wiki [http://pathinfo.wikia.coom/wiki/Pathology_Resident_Wiki <nowiki>[3]</nowiki>] and Ask Dr. Wiki [http://askdrwiki.com/mediawiki/index.php?title=Category:Pathology <nowiki>[4]</nowiki>].
*Both polyclonal and monoclonal nodules appear similar on fine needle aspiration (FNA) (macrofollicular) and are benign 8426623
*Thus, the diagnosis of follicular cancer in situ does not exist, because vascular or capsular invasion is required to make the diagnosis of follicular cancer. 8420446
*
==References==
==References==
{{reflist|2}}
{{reflist|2}}

Latest revision as of 15:35, 3 November 2017


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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Thyroid nodules may arise from different cells in the thyroid parenchyma. The pathogenesis of developing a thyroid nodule may differ based on the type of the nodule, and whether it is malignant or benign. Basically thyroid nodules may develop secondary to hyperplasia, mutations and resultant carcinoma, excess colloid accumulation, or frominflammation of thyroid tissue. Genetic mutation is considered as one of the most important mechanisms of developing thyroid nodules, especially neoplastic thyroid nodules. Most of these mutations occur as somatic mutations, while some may exhibit familial inheritance. The most important variety of familial thyroid cancers are caused by genetic mutations, and are called familial non-medullary thyroid cancer (FNMTC). Other important genes related to thyroid nodule formation include, N&H ras, RET, Gsp, C-MET, TRK, EGF / EGF-R, and P53.

Pathogenesis

A summary of thyroid nodule pathophysiology is presented in the slides below: [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][6][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31]

(a) Hyperplastic nodules

1. TSH role in thyroid nodule formation

2. Thyroid overgrowth stimulants:

Thyroid normally has a low proliferative activity, although it can start proliferation rapidly in response to certain stimulants. Stimulants mainly act through TSH mediated activity and production. The following stimulants appear to have the most important role in pathogenesis of hyperplastic nodules:[32][33]

3. Hyperplasia development phase:
4. Neoplasia development phase:
  • Each follicle is composed of different clones of cells (polyclonal), but during nodule formation they replicate in a simultaneous and coordinated manner, so each follicle of the nodule reproduces the same heterogeneity of the mother follicle.
  • When a neoplasm arises in the nodule, then the neoplastic follicle shows a monoclonal pattern, suggesting that cancer arises from a single cell
  • Activation of oncogenes is considered the underlying event leading to uncontrolled cell growth.

(b) Neoplastic nodules

Papillary thyroid carcinoma

Abbrevaitions:

ERK: extracellular signal-regulated kinase; MAPK: mitogen-activated protein kinase

(c) Colloid and cystic nodules

1. Colloid nodules

  • The colloid nodules consist of colloid droplets and thyroglobulin vesicles.
  • Thyroid gland keeps a balance between colloid and thyroglobulin production by regulating the secretion of thyroglobulin into colloid and reabsorption of colloid into thyroid follicular cells. This regulation is maintained by macro-pinocytosis (pseudopods) and micro-pinocytosis (microvilli).
  • Any imbalance between secretion and reabsorption of thyroglobulin leads to a disruption of the equilibrium, and produces a colloid appeared thyroid nodule. These nodules may also be produced as a defect of intraluminal thyroglobulin reabsorption. 

2. Iodine related nodules pathogenesis:

Iodine excess can lead to colloid nodules in thyroid gland, leading to a colloid goitre:

Another mechanism that may lead to colloid goitre formation is loss of thyroglobulin packaging ability, that may lead to an enormous enlargement of the follicles and flattening of the epithelium.

3. Cystic thyroid nodules

Cystic thyroid nodules may be classified into the following types:

(d) Thyroiditic nodule

Nodular lymphocytic thyroiditis almost always present in combination with other thyroiditic diseases. They can also present as a part of infection. It has been shown that the ability of super-antigens (SAgs) to activate the immune system may play a role in the course of autoimmune disorders. In most of these cases, the mechanism of nodular lesion is the same as the mechanism of the main disease, implying that the thyroid nodule is a part of normal disease pattern. Many of these nodules are not identifiable based on physical exam, and are detected during thyroid scintigraphy. The most important thyroiditic diseases that may present as lymphocytic nodular thyroid are:

Genetics

Genetic mutation is considered as one of the most important mechanisms of developing thyroid nodules, especially neoplastic thyroid nodules. Most of these mutations occur as somatic mutations, while some may occur in a familial order. The most important category of familial thyroid cancers are due to genetic mutations, and are called familial non-medullary thyroid cancer (FNMTC), with the following features:

The most important genetic mutations associated with thyroid neoplasia development

Oncogenes and growth factors Gene mechanism Mutation effect Neoplasia
N&H ras
RET
  • Encodes a receptor for glial-derived neurotrophic GF
  • Fusion proteins with constitutive thyrosine kinase activities
  • Dimerization of RET thyrosine kinase receptors (TRK)
Gsp
  • Hot adenomas
C-MET (α and β subunit)
  • Increased receptors for HGF/SF
  • Enhancement of receptor kinase activity
TRK
  • Mitogen activated TK cascade
EGF / EGF-R
P53
  • Lack of activation of p21/Waf l gene expression
  • Loss of regulation at the critical G1 to S phase

Associated Conditions

Preoperative serum TSH is an independent risk factor for predicting malignancy in a thyroid nodule, and is associated with:[42][43]

Gross Pathology

Microscopic Pathology

Diagnostic speciemen feature: the presence of at least six follicular cell groups, each containing 10–15 cells derived from at least two aspirates of a nodule[44][45][46][45]

Cytology classification Also referred to as: Efficient diagnosis May be seen in: FNA cytology
FNA Surgical biopsy
Follicular lesions  Benign (macrofollicular) +
  • May have areas of cystic degeneration with cellular debris and hemosiderin-laden macrophages
  • Cellular characteristics:
    • Small and flat
    • Uniform in size
    • Non-crowded
    • Smeared colloid is seen in the background
    • Follicle size may vary, with a few microfollicles interspersed among the macrofollicles, especially if the sample was obtained from an area close to the capsule of the lesion
  • Colloid:
    • May smear across the slide or occasionally aggregated into droplets due to disruption of follicles during FNA
    • Stains blue on a Papanicolaou stain
    • May be abundant in the background of macrofollicular lesions
Follicular neoplasm/microfollicular  +
  • Well-developed microfollicles
  • Crowding of cells
    • May form clusters and clumps
  • Scant colloid
  • Varying nuclear atypia
  • Varying cellular pleomorphism
  • Follicular carcinoma:
    • Focal microscopic invasion
  • Cellular or trabecular adenomas:
    • Lesions with less definite or no follicle formation
    • May show vascular or capsule invasion
Follicular lesion of undetermined significance (FLUS) +
  • Commonly, especially in nodular goiters
  • FLUS:
    • The lesion has approximately equal number of macrofollicular fragments and microfollicles
  • AUS:
  • Mostly due to compromised speciemens:
    • Poor fixation or obscuring blood (FLUS)
Atypia of undetermined significance (AUS)
Hürthle cells  +
Papillary cancer
  • The follicular variant of papillary cancer
+ Epithelioid giant cells

Psammoma bodies

Medullary cancer  +
  • Medullary cancer
Anaplastic thyroid cancer +


Neoplastic thyroid nodules subclassification microscopic pathology:

Neoplasm Subclass Features
Follicular thyroid lesions Minimally invasive follicular carcinoma
  • Only invasion of the capsule of the tumor without vascular invasion
Widely invasive follicular carcinoma
  • Extensive invasion of the tumor capsule
  • A multinodular tumor without a well-defined capsule invading the normal thyroid surrounding the tumor
  • Extensive vascular invasion (>4 foci of angioinvasion)
Encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid cancer
  • Minor vascular invasion (≤4 foci of angioinvasion within the tumor or capsule of the tumor) with or without capsular invasion
Infiltrative variant of papillary thyroid cancer
Papillary thyroid cancer Tall cell variant
Insular varient
Columnar variant
  • Elongated cells with palisading nuclei
Hürthle or oxyphilic variant
Clear cell variant
Diffuse sclerosing variant
Cribriform morular variant
Hobnail variant
  • Multifocal with variably sized complex papillary structures lined by cells
  • Cells with increased nuclear to cytoplasmatic ratios
  • Apically placed nuclei that lead to a surface bulge (hobnail appearance)
    19956062

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