Molecular Profiling of Unusual Thyroid Neoplasms

Thyroid neoplasms comprise a heterogeneous group of tumors, arising most commonly from follicular cells. While some neoplasms such as the papillary thyroid carcinoma have been widely studied and reported in the literature, our knowledge of the less common entities, including anaplastic thyroid carcinoma and medullary thyroid carcinoma is still deficient. In the current medical era, molecular characteristics of the tumors are being increasingly evaluated for their potential role in establishing diagnosis and to guide management. In this review article, we discuss some of the less common thyroid neoplastic entities, with a special focus on their molecular profiles. In addition, we share our own institutional experience obtained from molecular profiling of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma and medullary thyroid carcinoma.