"Collision" metastasis from unknown primary squamous cell carcinoma and papillary microcarcinoma of thyroid presenting as lateral cervical cystic mass

Auris Nasus Larynx. 2009 Jun;36(3):372-5. doi: 10.1016/j.anl.2008.04.015. Epub 2008 Jul 10.

Abstract

We report an unusual case of "collision metastasis". In a single lymph node, we found a metastatic mass composed of two immunohistochemically distinct components originating from two primary tumors: a papillary microfollicular thyroid cancer and an unknown primary squamous cell carcinoma. The clinical features and immunohistochemical profile are reported. Collision phenomena in oncology are extremely rare and pose diagnostic and management challenges which are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Papillary / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Papillary / surgery
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery
  • Cysts / diagnosis*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Lymphatic Metastasis / pathology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neck
  • Neoplasms, Multiple Primary / pathology*
  • Neoplasms, Multiple Primary / surgery
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / surgery