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An Orthotopic Mouse Model of Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma
Published on: April 17, 2013
Branchial-like cysts of the thyroid associated with solid cell nests
Michal Michal1, Petr Mukensnabl, Dmitry V Kazakov
1Sikl's Department of Pathology, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic. michal@medima.cz
Pathology International
|February 25, 2006
Summary
This case study reveals a rare branchial cleft-like cyst in the thyroid, originating from the ultimobranchial body. The cyst featured labyrinth-like cystic structures and squamous cell nests within lymphoid tissue.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pathology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Thyroid hypofunction can present with diverse pathologies.
- Cystic lesions of the thyroid require thorough histopathological evaluation.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old man with a 20-year history of hypothyroidism presented with a large cystic lesion in the right thyroid lobe.
- Microscopic examination revealed labyrinth-like cystic structures (LCS) lined by squamous cells and filled with mucin, adjacent to lymphoid tissue.
- Solid cell nests (SCN) were identified, some cystic and containing mucus, communicating with LCS, suggesting a shared origin.
Findings:
- The lesion exhibited benign-appearing squamous cells and lymphoid aggregates, with SCN appearing as outpouchings of LCS.
- Immunohistochemistry ruled out thyroid-specific markers (calcitonin, thyroglobulin).
- The stromal characteristics resembled those found in branchial cleft cysts.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a non-thyroidal origin for this cystic lesion, likely from the ultimobranchial body.
- This case expands the differential diagnosis for thyroid cystic lesions.
- Further research into ultimobranchial body remnants may clarify the pathogenesis of such cysts.
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