Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has which specific nuclear features that are diagnostic on fine needle aspiration cytology?
- A Small round nuclei with coarse 'salt and pepper' chromatin and nuclear molding
- B Orphan Annie eye nuclei (nuclear clearing), nuclear grooves, and pseudoinclusions ✓
- C Large vesicular nuclei with prominent central nucleoli
- D Hyperchromatic nuclei with increased N:C ratio and mitoses
Correct answer: B. Orphan Annie eye nuclei (nuclear clearing), nuclear grooves, and pseudoinclusions
Explanation
Papillary thyroid carcinoma has pathognomonic nuclear features: ground glass or 'Orphan Annie eye' appearance due to optically clear nuclei (chromatin margination), nuclear grooves (longitudinal folds in the nuclear membrane), and intranuclear cytoplasmic pseudoinclusions. These features reflect the architecture of the nuclear envelope and chromatin in PTC cells and are diagnostic even without papillary architecture. Medullary carcinoma shows 'salt and pepper' chromatin.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.