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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
07:01
An Orthotopic Mouse Model of Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma
Published on: April 17, 2013
Hürthle cell thyroid carcinoma presenting as a "hot" nodule
Naga M Yalla1, L Raymond Reynolds
1University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington, KY, USA. nmyall2@email.uky.edu
Summary
This case highlights a rare instance of Hürthle cell thyroid carcinoma presenting as a solitary toxic nodule in a pediatric patient. Vigilance is crucial, as carcinomas can mimic benign "hot" nodules on radioiodine scans.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Autonomous thyroid nodules typically present as benign follicular adenomas.
- Malignancy within a functioning thyroid nodule is an uncommon clinical presentation.
Observation:
- A pediatric patient presented with a solitary toxic nodule and hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid ultrasonography revealed a complex mass with increased vascularity.
- Radioiodine scintigraphy showed a "hot" nodule in the left thyroid lobe.
Findings:
- Histopathologic examination unexpectedly revealed Hürthle cell carcinoma.
- The tumor was well-differentiated, encapsulated, with negative margins and no lymphovascular invasion.
- Surgical management included lobectomy and completion thyroidectomy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rare possibility of carcinoma masquerading as a scintigraphic "hot" nodule.
- Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for malignancy, even in autonomously functioning nodules.
- Awareness of this rare entity is essential for accurate diagnosis and patient management.
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