papillary thyroid carcinoma
Also written as: PTC — papillary thyroid carcinoma
Most common type of thyroid cancer arising from follicular epithelial cells, typically with excellent prognosis when treated appropriately.
Full Definition
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most prevalent form of thyroid malignancy, accounting for approximately 80-85% of all thyroid cancers. This well-differentiated tumor arises from thyroid follicular epithelial cells and is characterized by distinctive nuclear features including nuclear grooves, intranuclear pseudoinclusions, and overlapping nuclei. PTC typically spreads via lymphatic channels to cervical lymph nodes but rarely involves distant organs. The tumor is often multifocal and may be bilateral. Treatment involves total or near-total thyroidectomy, often followed by radioactive iodine ablation. The overall prognosis is excellent, with 10-year survival rates exceeding 90% for most patients.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PTC; specify histologic variants when relevant (e.g., follicular variant, tall cell variant).
In Context
- "Fine needle aspiration confirmed papillary thyroid carcinoma with characteristic nuclear features." — pathology report
- "The patient underwent total thyroidectomy for multifocal papillary thyroid carcinoma." — surgical discharge summary