Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT3754

Introduction: Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is among the rarest and most aggressive tumors, often diagnosed in late, advanced stages, showing local invasion and distant metastases. The most common site for metastases is the lungs, generally detected through imaging examinations of the thorax.

Case Presentation: We present the case of a 46-year-old male who has been diagnosed with anaplastic papillary thyroid carcinoma, managed with thyroidectomy. Three months later, the patient showed signs of progressive dyspnea along with discomfort in the chest. CT scan of the thorax revealed multiple bilateral pulmonary metastatic lesions associated with mediastinal lymphadenopathy and pleural effusion suggestive of advanced states of disease. Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma with capsular invasion and embolic dissemination. Aggressive treatment was rendered: total thyroidectomy with selective lymph node dissection and external beam radiation therapy. The patient’s clinical condition rapidly deteriorated.

Discussion: This case demonstrates the rapidly progressing nature of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, often diagnosed late with distant metastases, particularly in the thorax. Imaging studies such as CT scans of the thorax play a decisive role in assessment of the extent of possible metastatic spread and help inform treatment decisions. The clinical condition has a very grave prognosis, thus requiring early and multidisciplinary management of such cases for better patient outcomes.