Medullary thyroid carcinoma: Case report

A uncommon neuroendocrine cancer that arises from thyroid parafollicular C cells, medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) makes up 1-5% of all thyroid malignancies. Because of its aggressive nature, early lymphatic dissemination, and poor response to traditional treatments, MTC contributes disproportionately to thyroid cancer- related death despite its low frequency. It can happen occasionally or as a component of hereditary disorders such multiple endocrine neoplasia types 2A and 2B, which are frequently linked to RET proto-oncogene mutations. Variable imaging and cytological features can make diagnosis difficult, therefore biochemical indicators like serum calcitonin are crucial for precise identification.
We describe the case of a 67-year-old woman who had a history of right breast cancer and who had a right-sided neck enlargement that was painless. While fine-needle aspiration cytology showed results compatible with medullary thyroid cancer, ultrasonography showed characteristics suggestive of a benign thyroid nodule. The patient had a central neck lymph node dissection along with a total thyroidectomy. A clearly defined tumor limited to the right thyroid lobe was discovered during surgery, and the postoperative course was uncomplicated with clinical improvement at discharge.
This case emphasizes how difficult it is to diagnose medullary thyroid cancer, especially when radiological results are deceptive. It highlights the need of keeping a high level of suspicion as well as the function of biochemicalmarkers and cytology in diagnosis. While improvements in molecular genetics and targeted medicines continue to improve outcomes in advanced and metastatic illness, early surgical intervention continues to be the cornerstone of management.