Primary thyroid mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue marginal zone lymphoma in a 46-year-old female: a case report.

in Gland surgery by Jing Yang, Li Jiao, Guoli Du, Sheng Jiang

TLDR

  • Primary thyroid lymphoma is a rare and often misdiagnosed condition, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning.
  • Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical for a favorable prognosis, with radiotherapy and chemotherapy often playing a crucial role in managing the condition.

Abstract

Primary thyroid lymphoma (PTL) is an extremely rare form of thyroid malignancy, merely accounting for 2-5% of all cases. Owing to its low incidence and the absence of concrete clinical manifestations, PTL is frequently misdiagnosed as thyroiditis or thyroid cancer, thereby presenting a significant hurdle to accurate diagnosis. This case study centered around a 46-year-old female patient. We meticulously detailed the diagnosis and treatment process of her primary thyroid mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) marginal zone lymphoma. Although ultrasonography can preliminarily flag suspected cases, a histopathologic biopsy remains indispensable for a conclusive diagnosis. In terms of treatment, surgery is only recommended under specific circumstances. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are common approaches and play a pivotal role in managing the conditions of particular PTL patients. In this instance, the patient sought medical attention due to a rapidly enlarging neck mass. Ultrasonography revealed diffuse thyroid lesions with reticular nodules, and further biopsy verified MALT lymphoma. Subsequently, an individualized radiotherapy plan was devised. If PTL can be diagnosed at an early stage and treatment commenced promptly, the prognosis is generally favorable. Hence, a profound understanding of the clinical and imaging characteristics of PTL and the attainment of early diagnosis are of crucial importance for effective treatment and prognosis evaluation. This can not only enhance the survival rate of patients but also furnish valuable experience for the diagnosis and treatment of subsequent similar cases, facilitating the advancement of medicine.

Overview

  • The study focuses on primary thyroid lymphoma (PTL), a rare form of thyroid cancer that accounts for 2-5% of all cases.
  • The case study reports on a 46-year-old female patient with primary thyroid mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) marginal zone lymphoma.
  • The study highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis, emphasizing the role of histopathologic biopsy in confirming the diagnosis and individualized treatment planning.

Comparative Analysis & Findings

  • Ultrasound imaging can preliminarily identify suspected cases of PTL, but a histopathologic biopsy is essential for a conclusive diagnosis.
  • Treatment options for PTL include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, with radiotherapy and chemotherapy often playing a crucial role in managing the condition.
  • Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical for a favorable prognosis, highlighting the importance of understanding clinical and imaging characteristics of PTL.

Implications and Future Directions

  • Achieving early diagnosis of PTL is crucial for effective treatment and prognosis evaluation, potentially leading to improved patient survival rates and advancement of medical knowledge.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the clinical and imaging characteristics of PTL, informing the development of effective diagnostic and treatment strategies.
  • The study underscores the importance of experienced clinicians and specialists in managing PTL cases, ensuring optimal treatment and patient outcomes.
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