Squamous-cell carcinoma of the thyroid

A rare type of thyroid cancer

Classification
External resources

Squamous-cell carcinoma of the thyroid (SCCT) is a rare and aggressive form of thyroid cancer characterized by the presence of squamous cells in the thyroid gland. This type of cancer is distinct from other forms of thyroid cancer due to its unique histological features and clinical behavior.

Pathophysiology

Squamous-cell carcinoma of the thyroid arises from the transformation of follicular cells into squamous cells, a process that is not fully understood. The presence of squamous cells in the thyroid is unusual, as the thyroid gland is primarily composed of follicular cells that produce thyroid hormones. The exact mechanism leading to the development of squamous cells in the thyroid remains a subject of research.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with SCCT typically present with a rapidly enlarging neck mass, which may be associated with symptoms such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), hoarseness, and dyspnea (difficulty breathing). These symptoms are often due to the tumor's aggressive nature and its tendency to invade surrounding structures in the neck.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of squamous-cell carcinoma of the thyroid is confirmed through a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and histopathological examination. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scans are used to assess the extent of the tumor and its invasion into adjacent tissues. A definitive diagnosis is made through a biopsy, where the presence of squamous cells is identified under a microscope.

Squamous cell carcinoma of the thyroid

Treatment

The treatment of SCCT is challenging due to its aggressive nature. Surgical resection is the primary treatment modality, often involving a total thyroidectomy and removal of affected surrounding tissues. Due to the high risk of recurrence and metastasis, adjuvant therapies such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be employed. However, the effectiveness of these treatments is limited, and the prognosis remains poor.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with squamous-cell carcinoma of the thyroid is generally poor, with a high rate of local recurrence and distant metastasis. The aggressive nature of the tumor and its resistance to conventional therapies contribute to the unfavorable outcomes. Early detection and comprehensive treatment are crucial for improving survival rates.

Epidemiology

Squamous-cell carcinoma of the thyroid is extremely rare, accounting for less than 1% of all thyroid cancers. It is more commonly diagnosed in older adults, with a slight predominance in females. Due to its rarity, there is limited data on its epidemiological characteristics.

Related pages

• Thyroid cancer
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Thyroidectomy