Contemporary evaluation and management of tall cell variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to describe the contemporary evaluation and management of tall cell variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma with an emphasis on the clinical features. RECENT FINDINGS: Tall cell variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common aggressive subtype. Within the last few years, the diagnostic criteria for this entity have evolved. Studies have elucidated a better understanding of the clinical implications and pathophysiology of this variant. In this review, the studies presented reflect cumulative and aggregated data from metaanalyses, systematic reviews, and large database investigations utilizing the current diagnostic criteria. SUMMARY: Overall, tall cell variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma represents an aggressive subtype of well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma with more prevalent high-risk features and a poorer clinical outcome.