multifocal disease
Presence of multiple, separate tumor foci within the same organ or tissue, commonly seen in thyroid and pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms.
Full Definition
Multifocal disease refers to the occurrence of multiple distinct tumor foci within a single organ, representing either synchronous primary tumors or intraglandular metastases from a single clone. In thyroid cancer, multifocality is associated with increased risk of lymph node metastases and local recurrence, influencing surgical planning toward total thyroidectomy rather than lobectomy. For pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, multifocal disease may suggest genetic predisposition syndromes such as MEN-1 and affects surgical approach and surveillance strategies.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the number and size of foci when documenting multifocal disease for staging purposes.
In Context
- "Histological examination revealed multifocal disease with three separate papillary thyroid carcinoma foci." — Surgical pathology report
- "The presence of multifocal disease influenced the decision to proceed with total thyroidectomy rather than lobectomy." — Surgical planning documentation