CASTLE tumour of the thyroid. Value of multiplanar imaging acquisition

Ann Ital Chir. 2006 Nov-Dec;77(6):509-12.

Abstract

Background and objective: Thyroid carcinomas thymus-like differentiation (CASTLE) are rare. The aim of this paper is to address a valid diagnostic and therapeutic protocol for these tumours using three exemplary cases and the previously published literature.

Methods: The routine use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in all cases of unclear thyroid fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) or in cases of multiple neck masses.

Results: Three cases of thyroid CASTLE tumours, finally confirmed by histology, are evaluated. All three patients remain in good conditions after an aggressive surgical approach followed by radiotherapy.

Conclusions: MRI should be routinely used in cases of unclear FNAC or multiple neck masses, Surgery and radiotherapy are effective to manage thyroid CASTLE tumours.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Thymus Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / surgery
  • Thyroidectomy