Carcinosarcoma of the thyroid: a case report

Hippokratia 2010; 14 (2): 141-142

I. Naqiyah, A N. Zulkarnaen, M. Rohaizak, S. Das

Abstract

Thyroid carcinosarcoma (TC) is a very rare, aggressive thyroid malignancy with a clinical course similar to anaplastic carcinoma. A thorough search of the literature reveals limited information regarding its behavior and treatment modalities. TC has a high mortality rate despite the multi-modal approach. A 54-year-old Chinese gentleman with a long history of a nodule in the right lobe of the thyroid presented with recent history of hemoptysis and shortness of breath. Cytology was suggestive of follicular neoplasm. However, histopathological examination of the total thyroidectomy specimen confirmed TC. This case reports discusses the clinical course and management of TC, which can cause a diagnostic dilemma.