[Metastasis of renal carcinoma to the thyroid gland]

Ann Otolaryngol Chir Cervicofac. 2007 Dec;124(6):301-4. doi: 10.1016/j.aorl.2006.11.003.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Introduction: Intrathyroid metastases are uncommon. Clinically, the distinction may be difficult with thyroid malignant tumor.

Case report: A 76-year-old woman was referred to our department for an evaluation of a dysphonia. She had a past history of renal cancer 6 months ago. A multinodular goiter was noticed at the palpation. Left recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy was observed; there was no cervical lymph node. Fine-needle aspiration was not contributive. Computed tomography confirmed the multinodular goiter. Total thyroidectomy was performed and final histologic examination revealed a metastasis of a renal cancer.

Conclusion: Even if intrathyroid metastasis are rare, the practitioner must suggest the diagnosis if the patient had a thyroid tumor and a past history of cancer. A fine-needle aspiration can help the diagnosis. The surgical management is recommended for isolated metastasis to the thyroid gland especially in renal cancer.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma / secondary*
  • Carcinoma / surgery
  • Female
  • Goiter, Nodular / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Kidney Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Kidney Neoplasms / surgery
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / surgery
  • Thyroidectomy