Hürthle Cell Tumors of the Thyroid Gland

Abstract

The head and neck surgeon will occasionally encounter a Hürthle cell tumor in the course of a thyroidectomy. Although well recognized, this cell type is only superficially dealt with in the literature. All cases of Hürthle cell tumors of the thyroid gland seen at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania from 1974 to 1982 were reviewed and analyzed with regard to the patient's age, sex, mode of presentation, treatment, and clinical course. The gross and microscopic findings of this histologic variant are described. Treatment recommendations are made based on the data presented and the literature review.