Dendritic cell sarcoma of the thyroid.

BACKGROUND

Follicular dendritic cell sarcoma (FDCS) arises from nonlymphatic antigen-presenting cells found in lymph node B-cell follicles. This extremely rare tumor, which usually arises in lymph nodes, does occur in extranodal head and neck sites such as the tonsil and soft palate.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the patient followed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center from 1993 to the present was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first reported case of an FDCS of the thyroid. A review of the literature provides useful information to aid in detection, treatment, and outcome of this unusual soft tissue malignancy.