Ectopic thyroid microfollicular adenoma in the lung: A case report

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pathology
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Ectopic thyroid arises from aberrant thyroid gland development during embryogenesis.
• Intrapulmonary ectopic thyroid is exceptionally rare, with benign microfollicular adenoma previously unreported.
• This study presents a unique case of intrapulmonary ectopic thyroid microfollicular adenoma.

Observation:

• A 76-year-old female presented with transient unconsciousness, exhibiting pelvic tumors and pulmonary nodules on imaging.
• Pathological examination revealed ovarian tumors and an ectopic thyroid microfollicular adenoma in the lung.
• The benign nature of the pulmonary lesion led to a decision for close follow-up.

Findings:

• The ectopic thyroid microfollicular adenoma in the lung was successfully diagnosed via fine-needle aspiration cytology.
• During a 12-month follow-up, no recurrence of pelvic tumors or metastasis was observed.
• The patient remained asymptomatic and euthyroid, with stable pulmonary nodules.

Implications:

• Intrapulmonary ectopic thyroid adenoma can be misdiagnosed as pulmonary metastases.
• This case underscores the necessity of including ectopic intrapulmonary thyroid tumors in the differential diagnosis of lung nodules.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management and avoiding unnecessary aggressive treatments.