Spectrum of thyroid neoplasms: A one year study at tertiary referral center

Background: Thyroid cancer accounts for approximately 1% of total cancer cases. Thyroid neoplasms are most common malignant lesions in endocrine system. Their incidence is rapidly increasing in recent times, partially attributed to increased awareness and earlier detection of asymptomatic tumors. They present clinically as nodular or diffuse mass lesions of thyroid similar to non- neoplastic lesions. A wide spectrum of neoplasms is encountered and histopathology evaluation is crucial to establish diagnosis. This study is done to present spectrum of thyroid neoplasms with varied histomorphology at a tertiary care center. Aim: To study the spectrum of thyroid neoplasms at MNJ Institute of Oncology for over a period of one year with special mention of interesting cases and overview of diagnostic pitfalls encountered. Materials and methods: All thyroidectomy specimens submitted to Department of Pathology for a period of one year, from October 2017 to September 2018 were included in study. Routine processing and staining along with ancillary techniques where ever necessary were used to arrive at diagnosis. Results: A total of 104 thyroidectomy specimens were included in the present study. Thyroid cancer was common in females. The most commonly encountered malignancy was Papillary carcinoma, seen in 30-40 years age group. Anaplastic carcinoma was seen in 60-70 years age group. Conclusion: Papillary carcinoma was most commonly encountered thyroid malignancy followed by medullary and anaplastic carcinoma. Follicular adenoma was the most common benign neoplasm. We have encountered almost the entire spectrum of thyroid neoplasms including the rare variants.