PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the PAEA Surgery EOR Exam. Test your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and detailed explanations. Gear up for your surgical rotation success!

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Which type of thyroid carcinoma is considered the most popular?

  1. Follicular carcinoma

  2. Medullary carcinoma

  3. Papillary carcinoma

  4. Anaplastic carcinoma

The correct answer is: Papillary carcinoma

Papillary carcinoma is recognized as the most common type of thyroid carcinoma, accounting for approximately 80% of all thyroid cancer cases. This form of cancer often arises in younger patients and is characterized by its slow growth and excellent prognosis. The diagnosis typically presents through a nodule in the thyroid gland, and its specific histological features include branching papillae and the presence of nuclear features such as nuclear grooves and intranuclear inclusions. Papillary thyroid carcinoma is known for its tendency to spread to regional lymph nodes but has a relatively low risk of distant metastasis. Other types of thyroid carcinoma, while notable, do not match the prevalence of papillary carcinoma. Follicular carcinoma, while the second most common type, comprises a smaller percentage of cases and generally exhibits a more aggressive behavior than papillary carcinoma. Medullary carcinoma, which arises from parafollicular C cells and can be associated with genetic syndromes, also has a lower incidence. Anaplastic carcinoma is the least common and is known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis, often presenting in older patients. Thus, papillary carcinoma stands out not only due to its frequency but also its generally favorable outcomes, making it a key focus in understanding thyroid malignancies.