A minute focus of extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma arising in Hashimoto thyroiditis diagnosed with PCR after laser capture microdissection: a case report

D'Antonio, A; Caleo, A; Licci, S; Addesso, M; De Palma, M; Boscaino, A; Nappi, O

HERO ID

1235755

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year

2009

Language

English

PMID

19735541

HERO ID 1235755
In Press No
Year 2009
Title A minute focus of extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma arising in Hashimoto thyroiditis diagnosed with PCR after laser capture microdissection: a case report
Authors D'Antonio, A; Caleo, A; Licci, S; Addesso, M; De Palma, M; Boscaino, A; Nappi, O
Journal Thyroid Research
Volume 2
Issue 1
Page Numbers 9
Abstract <strong>BACKGROUND: </strong>Primary thyroid gland lymphomas are uncommon tumours that occur in the setting of lymphocytic thyroiditis or Hashimoto's disease in almost all cases. In this condition a distinction between an inflammatory lymphoid infiltrate and a low grade lymphoma may be extremely difficult and precise criteria are necessary for a correct diagnosis.<br /><br /><strong>PATIENT AND METHODS: </strong>We report a case of a minute focus of primary extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (EMZBCL), incidentally discovered in a 63-year-old man with Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) and diagnosed by means of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) after laser capture microdissection.The histological examination of surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis of HT and showed a minute focus of dense lymphoid infiltrate (less than 4 mm in diameter), composed by centrocyte-like cells forming MALT balls. Immunoistochemistry was not useful. A microscopic focus of EMZBCL was suspected on the basis of morphological features. PCR assays revealed the rearrangement of the heavy chain of immunoglobulins only in the microdissected suspicious area, confirming the diagnosis of EMZBCL.<br /><br /><strong>CONCLUSION: </strong>Our finding suggests that in cases of autoimmune thyroiditis a careful examination of the thyroid specimen is warranted, in order to disclose areas or small foci of lymphomatous transformation. Furthermore, in difficult cases with doubtful immunohistological findings, ancillary techniques, such as molecular studies, are necessary for a conclusive diagnosis.
Doi 10.1186/1756-6614-2-9
Pmid 19735541
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Comments Journal: Thyroid research ISSN: 1756-6614
Is Public Yes
Language Text English
Is Qa No