Adenoid cystic carcinoma of trachea masquerading as papillary thyroid cancer - a case report

Abstract

Introduction: Thyroid nodules are common clinical entity. Though indolent in nature, they can be invasive too. However, tracheal tumours are relatively rare and come into clinical picture when patients show symptoms of tracheal obstruction. Case report:We report a 45 year old female who presented with cytology proven papillary carcinoma thyroid with clinical and radiological evidence of tracheal involvement. Patient underwent total thyroidectomy along with en bloc segmental tracheal resection with end to end anastomosis. However the pathology revealed adenoid cystic carcinoma of trachea. Conclusion:Adenoid cystic carcinomas of trachea are rare tumors and they can present as thyromegaly secondary to thyroid involvement. Surgeons should have a high index of suspicion for diagnosis. Surgical resection forms the mainstay of treatment.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the upper airway mimicking a thyroid tumor: A case report

“…Some patients may also present with hoarseness and weight loss (7). Although rarely, patients may also present with midline neck swelling (8,9). Due to its non-specific symptoms and slow progression, the mean interval between symptom presentation and correct diagnosis of ACC has been reported to be 12 months (10).…”