DR. NAVEEN A K

DR. PRITI SINHA, DR. HARSHA BHAMIDIPATI

Abstract

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common neoplasm of the thyroid. It usually grows slowly and is clinically indolent, although rare, its aggressive forms with local invasion or distant metastases can occur. Distant metastasis of thyroid carcinomas have predominantly been to the lungs and to a lesser extent to the bone, brain and soft tissues. Metastatic thyroid carcinoma rarely involves the orbit.

We hereby report an unusual case of orbital metastasis of PTC. A 61 years- old woman presented with proptosis of the left eye. On general examination we noticed a long standing swelling involving both the lobes of the thyroid. A FNAC of both the thyroid swelling and the orbital mass was done, which on clinical correlation was suggestive of a metastatic papillary carcinoma of the thyroid.

The importance of this case is due to its unusual presentation, which emerged as a primary clinical manifestation. Although rare, thyroid carcinoma should be suspected in orbital metastasis.