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Non-functioning parathyroid carcinoma: a case report.
Nobuyasu Suganuma1, Hiroyuki Iwasaki2, Satoru Shimizu2
1Kanagawa Cancer Center, Yokohama, Japan. nsuganuma@kcch.jp.
Surgical Case Reports
|July 21, 2017
Summary
Non-functioning parathyroid carcinoma, a rare condition, was diagnosed using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for parathyroid hormone (PTH) mRNA. This method aids in distinguishing it from other diseases lacking hyperparathyroidism.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Non-functioning parathyroid carcinoma is rare and challenging to diagnose due to the absence of hyperparathyroidism.
- Clinical presentation can mimic other thyroid and neck masses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of non-functioning parathyroid carcinoma.
- To highlight the utility of RT-PCR for PTH mRNA in diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- A 67-year-old male presented with hoarseness and a thyroid mass.
- Initial diagnosis suggested poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma.
- Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for parathyroid hormone (PTH) mRNA was performed.
Main Results:
- Laboratory tests for thyroid function, calcium, and PTH were within normal limits.
- Pathology revealed atypical cells with features of malignancy and slight positive PTH immunohistochemistry.
- RT-PCR for PTH mRNA was positive, confirming the diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- The case demonstrates a rare instance of non-functioning parathyroid carcinoma.
- RT-PCR for PTH mRNA is a valuable diagnostic tool for this rare condition.
