- Origin: From parafollicular C cells; characterized by amyloid substance in the stroma.
- Etiology: Sporadic or familial (MEN II) hyperparathyroidism, pheochromocytoma & medullary carcinoma.
- Presentation: Secretion of calcitonin, prostaglandins, serotonin in the blood leading to diarrhea, flushing & bronchospasm.
Investigations
- As before + for screening in familial type: calcitonin (if high in patient, used as a tumor marker).
Treatment
- Thyroid: Total thyroidectomy & block dissection of lymph nodes.
- Parathyroid: If sporadic, preserve all parathyroid glands; if familial, preserve only 1/2 parathyroid gland.