Question
Identify the type of thyroid carcinoma shown in the photomicrograph below ?
A. Medullary.
B. Anaplastic.
C. Papillary.
D. Large cell lymphoma.
Show Answer
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Correct Answer » C
Explanation
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Papillary carcinoma (PTC)is the most common form of well-differentiated thyroid cancer, and the most common form of thyroid cancer to result from exposure to radiation. Papillary carcinoma appears as an irregular solid or cystic mass or nodule in a normal thyroid parenchyma.
Despite its well-differentiated characteristics, papillary carcinoma may be overtly or minimally invasive. In fact, these tumors may spread easily to other organs. Papillary tumors have a propensity to invade lymphatics but are less likely to invade blood vessels.
The life expectancy of patients with this cancer is related to their age. The prognosis is better for younger patients than for patients who are older than 45 years.
