Thyroid Hürthle Cell Carcinoma: Clinical, Pathological, and Molecular Features

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Hürthle cell carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 3-4% of thyroid cancers and is more aggressive than other types.
• Its rarity necessitates further elucidation of pathological characteristics and biological behavior.
• Hürthle cells are identified by abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm rich in mitochondria.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on Hürthle cell carcinoma.
• To cover clinical, pathological, and molecular features.
• To enhance clinical management strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Hürthle cell carcinoma.
• Analysis of clinical presentation and diagnostic indicators.
• Examination of pathological and molecular findings.

Main Results:

• HCC is more prevalent in females aged 50-60.
• Ultrasound indicators for malignancy include male sex, older age, tumor size > 4 cm, solid nodules with irregular borders, or psammoma bodies.
• Treatment varies from thyroid lobectomy to total thyroidectomy based on tumor size and spread.

Conclusions:

• Preoperative diagnosis of HCC remains challenging.
• Treatment decisions depend on tumor characteristics, with total thyroidectomy recommended for larger tumors.
• Molecular alterations involve signaling pathways and mitochondrial DNA, requiring further research.