Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the thyroid gland through the prism of a clinical case

Abstract

Primary mucoepidermoid carcinoma originating from the thyroid gland is rare, accounting for less than 0.5% of thyroid tumors, and has a high frequency in women. Diagnosis of mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the thyroid gland at the preoperative stage is extremely difficult. In this clinical case, we describe a 37-year-old patient, after ultrasound of the thyroid gland revealed 2 masses in the right lobe: 19 mm and 38 mm in diameter and three masses in the left lobe with a diameter of 4 mm. Classification of masses according to EU-TIRADS category 3. Cytological examination of thyroid punctates suspected a malignant process (Bethesda 5) and in accordanced with clinical recommendations, the patient underwent thyroidectomy. And according to the results of histological and immunohistochemical examination, mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the thyroid gland was diagnosed on the background of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. Our clinical case showed that a thorough histological and immunohistochemical examination by a qualified pathologist, doctors' awareness of the rare thyroid carcinomas will allow to make a correct diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment to the patient.