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Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma

Meaning

Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) is a rare form of neuroendocrine malignancy originating from the parafollicular C cells of the thyroid gland, which are responsible for producing the hormone calcitonin. Unlike the more common papillary or follicular thyroid cancers, MTC often presents as a hereditary condition, linked to mutations in the RET proto-oncogene, and is characterized by elevated serum calcitonin levels. Clinical management necessitates early detection and comprehensive surgical and systemic therapy due to its potential for aggressive metastasis.