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Diagnostic Pathology

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Open Access 01-12-2018 | Case Report

Pathological characteristics and genetic features of melanin-producing medullary thyroid carcinoma

Authors: Changsong Wang, Tian Yun, Zhicheng Wang, Nianlong Meng, Naijun Fan, Xuexia Lv, Fulin Li

Published in: Diagnostic Pathology | Issue 1/2018

Abstract

Objective

To study the clinicopathological characteristics and genetic features of melanin-producing medullary thyroid carcinoma (MP-MTC).

Methods

The immunophenotype of MP-MTC was studied using the immunohistochemical method, and its genetic features were assayed using an amplification refractory mutation system or PCR method.

Results

A 71-year-old man presented with a slowly growing 5-cm mass on the left side of the neck for approximately two months. The cut surface of the neoplasm was brown and black. Melanin was found in the cytoplasm of tumor cells or the extracellular matrix. The tumor cells were positive for AE1/AE3, S-100 protein, melan A, HMB-45, synaptophysin, calcitonin, chromogranin A, melanoma, and thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) and negative for thyroglobulin. No typical genetic features were observed in this case. The patient showed no symptoms and recurrence at 12 months after the operation.

Conclusions

The tumor cells of MP-MTC were positive for melanin biomarkers, TTF-1 and exhibited no genetic features. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry of the tumor cells will aid accurate diagnosis.

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Title: Pathological characteristics and genetic features of melanin-producing medullary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Changsong Wang
Tian Yun
Zhicheng Wang
Nianlong Meng
Naijun Fan
Xuexia Lv
Fulin Li
Publication date: 01-12-2018
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Diagnostic Pathology / Issue 1/2018
Electronic ISSN: 1746-1596
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13000-018-0764-2

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Pathological characteristics and genetic features of melanin-producing medullary thyroid carcinoma

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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