Hurtle Cell explanation

[Leigh120]

Okay finally got the results of the biopsy from last week.  It says Benign.  Diagnosis: Thyroid gland rt lower pole 2.1 cm  - Atypical cells seen; follicular lesion with hurthle cell change and cytologic atypia.    The following note says: the smears groups show hurthle cell features, but no overt papillary cytologic features are noted, but a hurthle cell neoplasm cannot entirely be excluded.  Although there are areas of cytologic atypia, no overt evidence of malignancy is seen.   I can't figure out if thats good or bad.  My doctor has referred me to a surgeon.    Can anyone here enlighten me a little on this.   I would really appreciate it.   Thanks.

[Leigh120]

Thanks...I will research further and wait until I can see a surgeon - am making an appointment tomorrow.  What has me really freaked is that I feel like there's an infection in that spot.....pretty much like what an irritated fat tonsil would feel like.....crazy huh?

[dscoochie]

Sorry, I should have specified that my biopsy was somewhat similiar to yours, but it did not state benign as your does.  My nodule did have hurthle cells, follicular cells, macrophages and colloid.

D

[MKlacza]

I had Hurthle Cell Neoplasm and mine was not cancer!!! They suspected, but came back benign. I had my thyroid removed 2 weeks ago because of the Hurtle Cell and I had a positive outcome!!!!!

[dscoochie]

I just had surgery (on Monday) to remove my left lobe and isthmus because of a 1.9 cm nodule that FNA (biopsy) stated was indeterminate, or inconclusive.

From what I understand, follicular cells and hurthle cells can be normal cells within the thyroid.  They can also be (but most often ARE NOT) cancerous.  I understand the chances are about 20%.  I'm personally freaking out waiting for the pathology to come back.

For a good explanation, google endocrineweb.com and hurthle cells.