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Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: a 25-Year Perspective

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Abstract

This article summarizes the major clinical, pathological, and molecular features of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), based on a review of the most significant advances in our understanding of this tumor type over the last 25 years. MTC is a neuroendocrine carcinoma that shows evidence of C-cell differentiation. The tumor has a distinctive morphologic appearance, including the presence of amyloid deposits. Immunostaining for calcitonin, carcinoembryonic antigen, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and thyroid transcription factor 1 is helpful in differential diagnosis. Identification of RET mutations in familial and sporadic MTC has brought important changes in early diagnosis and treatment. Surgery remains the cornerstone of effective therapy. Understanding the molecular basis of MTC will allow identification of novel approaches for individualized treatment.

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Acknowledgments

This study was supported by grants 2009SGR794, FIS RD12/0036/0013, Fundación Asociación Española contra el Cancer, and programa de intensificación de la investigación, ISCIII.

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The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pathology and Molecular Genetics and Research Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova, University of Lleida IRBLLEIDA, Av Alcalde Rovira Roure 80, Lleida, 25198, Spain

    Xavier Matias-Guiu

  2. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and the Rhode Island and Miriam Hospitals, Providence, RI, USA

    Ronald De Lellis

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Correspondence to Xavier Matias-Guiu.

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Matias-Guiu, X., De Lellis, R. Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: a 25-Year Perspective. Endocr Pathol 25, 21–29 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12022-013-9287-2

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