RAS-Mutant Follicular Thyroid Tumors: A Continuous Challenge for Pathologists.

Abstract

The classification of thyroid nodules, particularly those with a follicular growth pattern, has significantly evolved. These tumors, enriched with RAS or RAS-like mutations, remain challenging for pathologists due to variables such as nuclear atypia, invasion, mitotic activity, and tumor necrosis. This review addresses the histological correlates of benign, low-risk, and malignant RAS-mutant thyroid tumors, as well as some difficult-to-classify follicular nodules with worrisome features. One prototypical RAS-mutant nodule is non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP). The assessment of nuclear characteristics in encapsulated/well-demarcated non-invasive RAS-mutant follicular-patterned tumors helps distinguish between follicular thyroid adenoma (FTA) and NIFTP. Despite this straightforward concept, questions about the degree of nuclear atypia necessary for the diagnosis of NIFTP are common in clinical practice. The nomenclature of follicular nodules lacking clear invasive features with increased mitotic activity, tumor necrosis, and/or high-risk mutations (e.g., TERT promoter or TP53) remains debated. Invasion, particularly angioinvasion, is the current hallmark of malignancy in RAS-mutant follicular-patterned neoplasms, with follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) as the model. Assessing the tumor interface is critical, though full capsule evaluation can be challenging. Multiple levels and NRASQ61R-specific immunohistochemistry can aid in identifying invasion. Controversies around vascular invasion persist, with ancillary stains like CD31, ERG, and CD61 aiding in its evaluation. Moreover, the review highlights that invasive encapsulated follicular variant papillary thyroid carcinoma (IEFVPTC) is closely associated with FTC, suggesting the need for better nomenclature. The concept of "high-grade" differentiated carcinomas, applicable to FTC or IEFVPTC with necrosis and/or high mitotic activity, is also discussed.