Complete resorption of the humerus in metastatic follicular thyroid carcinoma: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Background Thyroid carcinoma is the commonest endocrinological malignancy. Bone metastasis of thyroid carcinoma is rare. Particularly, bone metastases leading to complete resorption of the humerus are extremely uncommon. Case presentation We presented a case of a 67-year-old woman experiencing chronic pain at her right upper arm for five years. Clinical, radiological, and pathological evaluations have confirmed humeral metastasis from follicular thyroid carcinoma. Despite surgical treatment options like tumor removal or amputation, the patient pursued conservative managements such as herbal medicine, radioactive iodine (131I) therapy, and Levothyroxine Sodium (L-T4). However, the humeral destruction aggravated gradually, eventually leading to completely resorption of her right humerus. Currently the patient could not move her right shoulder while her forearm motion was almost normal. Thus, she could complete her daily living activities independently. She still opted for conservative managements such as radioactive iodine therapy and rejected any surgical treatment. Conclusion This case underscores the complexities of diagnosing and managing bone metastasis in follicular thyroid carcinoma. A comprehensive review of relevant case reports further contributes to understanding this condition, emphasizing individualized and multidisciplinary approaches.. Our study provides critical insights into diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for bone metastasis from follicular thyroid carcinoma.