Cervical thyroid remnant consistent with papillary carcinoma as an incidental finding in a patient with benign total thyroidectomy ten years prior.

Background: Differential diagnosis of a cervical lesion corresponding with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) after benign total thyroidectomy can be a real challenge.

Methods: A cervical thyroid remnant compatible with papillary carcinoma was incidentally found ten years after total thyroidectomy for a non-functional multinodular goitre. Histological analysis of fine needle puncture aspiration (FNPA) was highly suggestive for PTC. Surgical excision of the cervical lesion was performed. Specimen study demonstrated a classic variant of PTC contacting a peripheral margin, applying ablative treatment with radioactive iodine postoperatively.

Results: The patient did not present signs of recurrence during follow-up. Small thyroid remnants after benign thyroidectomy are often left behind, although their risk of malignancy is exceptional.

Conclusions: It is important to individualize therapeutic approach when facing this rare entity. We decided to treat the patient by removing the lesion followed by ablation therapy with successful results. PTC: Papillary thyroid carcinoma FNPA: Fine needle puncture aspiration.