Chest CT Appearances

Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma (PTC) CT Findings

• Hypodense compared to gland
• Tiny calcifications
• Can have well-circumscribed or ill-defined margins
• Cystic spaces common
• Can aggressively invade airway

Other Information About Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma (PTC)

Etiology:

• Unknown

Epidemiology:

• Typically presents between ages 30-60
• 3x more common in females

Presentation:

• Typically asymptomatic
• Palpable mass
• Feeling of asphyxiation
• Dysphagia
• Vocal changes
• Throat pain

Prognosis:

• The 5-year relative survival rates are:
  • Localized: >99%
  • Regional: 99%
  • Distant: 71%
  • All SEER stages combined: >99%

Related Pearls: Thymus