Papillary thyroid carcinoma in an 8-year-old Ethiopian child: A case report with literature review

Abstract

Thyroid nodular disease can present in different forms, such as a solitary nodule, multinodular goiter, nodular goiter caused by autoimmune goiter, and nonpalpable thyroid nodules. Among children, thyroid cancer is the most common type of endocrine cancer. Pediatric thyroid cancer is usually detected as a neck mass without any symptoms, leading to variable stages of progression when diagnosed. Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common type of thyroid cancer in children with thyroid nodules. We are presenting a case of an 8-year-old male child who was referred to Jimma Medical Center after he developed swelling on the right side of his neck. On examination, multiple, matted 8 × 6 cm, firm to hard, non-tender right lateral neck masses were found, which moved with swallowing. Thyroid function tests were normal. An ultrasound diagnosis of thyroid carcinoma and a cytologic diagnosis of suspicion for papillary thyroid carcinoma (Bethesda V) was made, and an excisional biopsy was advised. A total thyroidectomy was done. A histopathology diagnosis of Papillary thyroid carcinoma (Classic variant) was made. This is an unusual case of Papillary thyroid carcinoma in an Ethiopian child, with plenty of examples previously recorded in the literature but no such report of its occurrence in our setup to our knowledge. When children under 10 have cervical masses, thyroid cancer should be considered. The evaluation of a palpable thyroid mass typically begins with a blood test to check thyroid function, along with ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Currently, fine-needle aspiration biopsy is the most reliable way to diagnose malignancy and determine the appropriate surgical approach. In most cases, treatment will involve a total thyroidectomy. Lymph node dissection is necessary only if lymph node disease is detected during preoperative evaluation.