**Core Concept**
Papillary thyroid carcinoma is a type of well-differentiated thyroid cancer that can progress to more aggressive forms. The rapid enlargement of a neck mass and hoarseness of voice in an 80-year-old male with untreated papillary carcinoma of the thyroid suggest a transformation to a more aggressive and dedifferentiated thyroid cancer.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Anaplastic thyroid cancer is a rare and aggressive form of thyroid cancer that often arises from the dedifferentiation of well-differentiated thyroid cancers, such as papillary thyroid carcinoma. This transformation is more common in older adults and is characterized by rapid growth and invasion of surrounding tissues. The presence of hoarseness of voice suggests involvement of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which is a common feature of anaplastic thyroid cancer.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Medullary thyroid cancer is a type of thyroid cancer that originates from the parafollicular cells (also known as C-cells) of the thyroid gland. It is not typically associated with the rapid enlargement of a neck mass and hoarseness of voice in the context of untreated papillary carcinoma of the thyroid.
**Option B:** Huhle cell carcinoma is a rare variant of follicular thyroid cancer, which is also a well-differentiated thyroid cancer. It is not typically associated with the rapid growth and dedifferentiation that is characteristic of anaplastic thyroid cancer.
**Option C:** Papillary thyroid cancer is the original diagnosis, but it is not the correct answer because the patient's symptoms suggest a transformation to a more aggressive and dedifferentiated form of the disease, which is anaplastic thyroid cancer.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Anaplastic thyroid cancer is often referred to as a "cancer of the elderly" because it typically arises in older adults with a history of well-differentiated thyroid cancer. It is a highly aggressive and fatal form of cancer that requires prompt recognition and treatment.
**β Correct Answer: D. Anaplastic thyroid cancer**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.