Papillary carcinomas - Figure 12. Cytological presentation - oxyphilic metaplasia.

Oxyphilic metaplasia is a frequent finding in papillary cancer. Focal occcurrence of oxyphilic cells has no relevance in the diagnosis. On the other hand diffusely occurring oxyphilic metaplasia influences the diagnostic of papillary carcinoma. It may make the diagnosis more easy if colloid and lymphocytes are lacking. On the other hand, it may cause great concern if lymphocytes are present, because the diagnostic power of inclusions and grooves are weaker in oxyphilic lesions which frequently present these nuclear signs irrespective of the origin of Hürthle-cells.