Abstract:
Objective To evaluate the sonographic characteristics of primary lymphoma of the thyroid gland and to analyze histopathologic findings and other imaging features to improve the diagnostic accuracy of this disease.
Methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of 20 patients with histologically proven primary lymphoma of the thyroid gland. The clinical, pathologic, sonographic, CT, and MRI features were analyzed.
Results Histology revealed non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 20 patients. Ultrasound revealed lateral thyroid lobe disease in 12 cases and the presence of unilateral masses in 8 cases. The main features seen were diffusely enlarged thyroid gland. The lateral or unilateral thyroid lobe was with hypoechoic masses intermingled with echogenic structures. A total of 16 cases showed enlarged lymph nodes, 5 cases showed invasion of trachea, and 1 case involved the trachea and esophagus.
Conclusion Primary lymphoma of the thyroid gland usually presents with clinical and sonographic findings mimicking a carcinoma or benign tumor. If clinical features revealed rapidly enlarging neck masses and sonographic characteristics represented by malignant features of Hashimoto thyroiditis, then we should consider lymphoma. However, the final diagnosis depends on histopathology.