Thyroid Disorders · Pathology

Which histological feature distinguishes a Follicular Carcinoma from a Follicular Adenoma?

  1. Presence of Orphan Annie eye nuclei
  2. Cellular pleomorphism and high mitotic rate
  3. Capsular or vascular invasion
  4. Presence of amyloid stroma
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Correct answer: Capsular or vascular invasion

Follicular adenomas and carcinomas can look identical on fine-needle aspiration. The definitive diagnosis of carcinoma requires the histological demonstration of the tumor cells penetrating the fibrous capsule or invading blood vessels.

Difficulty: Medium Question 6 of 20

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