[Undifferentiated carcinoma and lymphoma of the thyroid gland. Apropos of a series of 38 cases]. / Carcinomes indifférenciés et lymphomes du corps thyroïde. A propos d'une série de 38 cas.

ABSTRACT

Twenty-seven patients with undifferentiated carcinoma and eleven with lymphoma of the thyroid are reviewed. Histologic sections of all tumors were re-examined critically. Most tumors were extensive forms spreading beyond the thyroid. Complete macroscopic excision was performed in 18 cases, incomplete excision in 12 patients. Surgery was not carried out in 8 patients, while radiotherapy was given to 27 cases. Local changes decide the prognosis whatever the findings on histology. Undifferentiated carcinomas have a poor local prognosis even after apparently satisfactory macroscopic excision. Effective local control was obtained in all cases of lymphoma treated by surgery and radiotherapy combined.