Diffuse sclerosing variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma presenting as suspected cervical osseous metastasis: a case report and literature review

The diffuse sclerosing variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (DSV-PTC) is an uncommon variant of PTC. Although its histologic features are aggressive, its prognostic significance remains controversial. Herein, we report a case of DSV-PTC, in a 41-year-old woman with a history of breast and thyroid cancers. Bone scan evaluation showed suspected cervical osseous metastasis during the previous cancer follow-up. Further, magnetic resonance imaging was recommended. Preoperative fine-needle aspiration (FNA) showed features of thyroid papillary carcinoma and postoperatively, the mass was diagnosed to DSV-PTC showing features of numerous and diffuse calcification and squamous metaplasia. Herein, we describe the pathologic features, including histologic and FNA cytologic features, and prognostic implications through a literature review.