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Management of carcinoma showing thymus-like element

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 March 2010

D Biswas ,
L Karsai ,
S L Atkin  and
R J England
D Biswas*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Hull Royal Infirmary, University of Hull, UK Department of Otolaryngology, Sheffield Children's Hospital, UK
L Karsai
Affiliation:
Department of Histopathology, Hull Royal Infirmary, University of Hull, UK
S L Atkin
Affiliation:
Department of Endocrinology, Hull Royal Infirmary, University of Hull, UK
R J England
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Hull Royal Infirmary, University of Hull, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Mr D Biswas, Department of Otolaryngology, Hull Royal Infirmary, Anlaby Road, Hull HU3 2JZ, UK. E-mail: drdbiswas@hotmail.com
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Abstract

Objective:

To consolidate the key features of carcinoma showing thymus-like element, including its management.

Method:

We present our experience of the difficult diagnosis and management of this rare tumour. We also present the results of an extensive literature search, documenting those aspects of the clinical picture, natural history and management of carcinoma showing thymus-like element which are relevant to head and neck surgeons.

Result:

Intrathyroidal, epithelial carcinoma showing thymus-like element is a rare, malignant tumour of the thyroid gland, with histopathological features similar to squamous cell carcinoma but a more favourable prognosis. It is usually treated surgically using a combination of total thyroidectomy and selective neck dissection, with radiotherapy and chemotherapy in selected cases.

Conclusion:

Carcinoma showing thymus-like element of the thyroid gland is a rare condition. Head and neck surgeons with a thyroid interest should be aware of this tumour, because of its close histological resemblance to other, commoner malignancies of the thyroid gland.

Keywords

CarcinomaThyroidThymus
Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 124 , Issue 11 , November 2010 , pp. 1242 - 1244
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2010

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Footnotes

Presented at the 13th British Academic Conference of Otolaryngology, 9th July 2009, Liverpool, UK.

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