Fact 6: Papillary Thyroid Cancer Has Several Subtypes
Another interesting facet of PTC is that it’s not a homogenous disease – it has several subtypes, each with its unique characteristics and behavior. These subtypes include classic PTC, follicular variant, tall cell variant, and others. These variants are typically identified by their unique cellular structures under microscopic examination.
Classic PTC, the most common subtype, is characterized by papillae surrounded by a layer of cells with ground-glass nuclei. On the other hand, the follicular variant, which is often encapsulated, resembles follicular thyroid cancer but exhibits the nuclear features of PTC.
The tall cell variant of PTC is rarer and tends to be more aggressive. The cells are taller than they are wide, hence the name. This variant is often associated with a higher risk of local recurrence and distant metastasis.
Recognizing these subtypes is crucial, as it can influence the treatment plan and prognosis. It’s a reminder of the complexity of cancer and the importance of personalized medicine in managing this disease. (6)
