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Challenges in Cytology Specimens With Hürthle Cells
Eleni Thodou1, Sule Canberk2,3, Fernando Schmitt3,4,5
1Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
Frontiers in Endocrinology
|July 12, 2021
Summary
Diagnosing Hürthle cell thyroid lesions is challenging due to morphological variations. This review details their cytology, differential diagnosis, and molecular insights for improved accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Cytopathology
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Hürthle cells in thyroid fine-needle aspirations (FNA) appear in diverse lesions, from benign to malignant.
- Morphological recognition is challenging, leading to interobserver variability in diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the cytology of neoplastic and non-neoplastic Hürthle cell thyroid lesions.
- To focus on differential diagnosis and reporting using The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytology (TBSRTC).
- To incorporate new entities from the WHO classification and current molecular data.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of Hürthle cell thyroid lesions.
- Analysis of cytomorphological features.
- Integration of molecular data and updated classifications.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of cytological findings for various Hürthle cell lesions.
- Emphasis on diagnostic challenges and interobserver variability.
- Inclusion of recent molecular data and WHO classification updates.
Conclusions:
- Morphological assessment combined with contextual interpretation and molecular data improves Hürthle cell tumor diagnosis.
- Adherence to TBSRTC guidelines and updated classifications is crucial for accurate reporting.

