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Medullary thyroid carcinoma presenting as a supraglottic mass
Jeremy White1, Ahmed Mohyeldin, Arnold Schwartz
1ARC Plastic Surgery, 21097 NE 27th Ct., Suite 590, Aventura, FL 33180. jwhiteplastics@gmail.com.
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|November 15, 2014
Summary
This case study details a rare instance of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) metastasizing to the supraglottic larynx. It highlights the importance of considering MTC in supraglottic masses, even with unusual presentations.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Otolaryngology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor originating from parafollicular C-cells of the thyroid.
- Distant metastasis of MTC is associated with a poor prognosis.
- Laryngeal involvement in MTC metastasis is exceptionally uncommon.
Observation:
- A 92-year-old male presented with a 3-month history of voice change and airway obstruction.
- Diagnostic workup revealed a supraglottic mass, confirmed as medullary thyroid carcinoma metastasis.
- The patient declined surgical intervention due to advanced age.
Findings:
- This represents the first reported case of medullary thyroid carcinoma presenting as a supraglottic laryngeal mass.
- The clinical presentation underscores the potential for unusual metastatic patterns in MTC.
- The advanced age of the patient precluded standard treatment recommendations.
Implications:
- This case expands the known spectrum of MTC metastatic sites.
- It emphasizes the need for thorough investigation of supraglottic masses, including MTC.
- Optimal management involves total thyroidectomy, neck dissection, and complete tumor excision.
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