Expert: Neha Dahiya MD - 8/22/2009

Question
HiNeha,
I have a 6cmX5cmx3cm mass in m sternal notch. I also have 2 hypoechoic noules in my thyroid. I also have prominant lymph nodes. The mass does not take up iodine on isotope scan Thyroid gland has multinodular change.
The Cytology report reads,
This is a cellular specimen. Ther is abundant thin colloid, haemosiderophages, macrophages and follicular cells arranged in variably sized follicles are present.
Findings are consistent with ectopic thyroid tissue. Clinicopathological correlation is reccommended.
Is there a chance that this could be malignant? Could you explain fna to me?


Answer
Hello Elisa:

I apologize for the delay in answering, due to unforeseen circumstances I was unable to attend to your question.

The cytology report describes presence of colloid which is the material produced by thyroid cells.

Follicular cells are the cells of thyroid arranged in a normal pattern. Everything is what is seen in a normal report.

Since this nodule was in the sternal notch away from where the thyroid gland is located, this is thus ectopic location of normal thyroid tissue. This is not malignant