Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
03:55
Computer-Aided Three-Dimensional Visualization in the Treatment of Locally Advanced Thyroid Cancer
Published on: June 9, 2023
1.2K
Follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma with a twist
Obinna Nwaeze1, Stephen Obidike1, Dorinda Mullen2
1Surgery Department, Mallow General Hospital, Mallow, Cork, Ireland.
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
|February 5, 2015
Summary
Cutaneous metastases to the scalp from follicular variant papillary thyroid cancer are rare. Early recognition of these skin lesions is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Follicular variant papillary thyroid cancer (FVPTC) can metastasize to the skin.
- Cutaneous metastases from thyroid cancer are uncommon, with the scalp being the most frequent site.
- A history of multi-nodular goiter may precede thyroid cancer development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of scalp metastasis from FVPTC.
- To review the literature on cutaneous metastases from thyroid carcinoma.
- To emphasize the importance of differentiating skin metastases from primary skin tumors.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 75-year-old female with a scalp lesion.
- Surgical excision of the cutaneous lesion.
- Histopathological examination of the excised lesion.
- Literature review of thyroid carcinoma skin metastases.
Main Results:
- Histology confirmed the scalp lesion was a metastasis from FVPTC.
- Follicular thyroid carcinoma shows a higher predilection for cutaneous metastasis than papillary thyroid carcinoma.
- Most skin metastases from thyroid cancer occur on the head and neck, particularly the scalp.
Conclusions:
- Cutaneous metastases from thyroid carcinoma are rare and often present on the scalp.
- Early diagnosis of skin metastases is vital for prompt and accurate treatment.
- These metastases should be distinguished from primary cutaneous neoplasms.
Related Concept Videos
01:23The Thyroid Gland
9.1K
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck and covers the anterior surface of the trachea. The gland has two lateral lobes connected by a thin tissue mass called the isthmus. Internally, each lobe comprises many small spherical structures known as thyroid follicles, surrounded by a network of blood vessels.
The follicles have a central cavity lined by simple cuboidal to squamous epithelial cells called follicular cells. These cells produce the glycoprotein...
The follicles have a central cavity lined by simple cuboidal to squamous epithelial cells called follicular cells. These cells produce the glycoprotein...
9.1K
01:24Graves Disease II: Pathophysiology
5
Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the production of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) that activate TSH receptors, leading to excessive synthesis and release of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and resulting in hyperthyroidism.Among all causes of hyperthyroidism, Graves’ disease is the most common and can happen at any age, though it is more frequent in women. It produces a hypermetabolic state with features such as weight loss, tachycardia, tremor,...
5
00:59The Parathyroid Glands
6.2K
The two pairs of parathyroid glands embedded within the posterior surface of the thyroid gland are restricted by a dense capsule around them. These glands comprise two distinct cell populations—parathyroid oxyphil and parathyroid principal cells- pivotal in calcium homeostasis.
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by...
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by...
6.2K
01:27Hyperthyroidism II: Pathophysiology
6
Hyperthyroidism is a hypermetabolic state caused by elevated levels of thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). It results from dysregulation at the thyroid, pituitary, or immune system level and affects multiple organ systems.PathophysiologyThe most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies, specifically thyroid-stimulating antibodies (TSAb), a subtype of TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb), bind to and activate TSH...
6
01:25Hyperthyroidism I: Introduction
4
Hyperthyroidism is a type of thyrotoxicosis characterized by the thyroid gland's overproduction of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). This hormone excess increases the basal metabolic rate and enhances sensitivity to catecholamines.DiagnosisDiagnosis is based on clinical features and biochemical testing. It typically shows suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels below 0.4 mIU/L, with elevated free T3 and/or T4. Additional tests, including thyroid...
4
01:28Graves' Disease I: Introduction
4
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism, or overactivity of the thyroid gland. It results from autoantibodies called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSIs), which bind to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors, leading to overstimulation of hormone production and a hypermetabolic state.EtiologyAlthough considered idiopathic, Graves’ disease has well-established contributing factors. There is a strong genetic component, with increased prevalence...
4