Work

A rare challenging macrofollicular thyroid carcinoma: a case report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background Macrofollicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (MFV-PTC) is an exceptionally rare subtype that mimics benign colloid nodules. Due to its insidious microscopic appearance, it poses a significant risk of cytological misdiagnosis. Case presentation A 38-year-old woman presented with a suspicious solid thyroid nodule. Two consecutive fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsies were reported as Bethesda Category II (Benign). A third FNA finally suggested malignancy, and subsequent histopathology confirmed MFV-PTC. Following total thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine ablation, the patient remains disease-free at 12-month follow-up. Conclusions MFV-PTC is a rare but critical differential diagnosis in follicular lesions. This case highlights the potential for false-negative cytology and the importance of clinical correlation in managing macrofollicular thyroid nodules.

Source: Journal of Rare Diseases

DOI: 10.1007/s44162-026-00201-6

Authors: Eren Altun, Ismail Safa Poyrazoglu, Ahmet Barcın, Emin Topcu

Institutions: Bağcılar Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi, Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi

Language: English

Topic: Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7161758848