Papillary microcarcinoma of the thyroid: a review

Papillary cancers of the thyroid less than 1cm in diameter are defined as microcarcinomas. Although considered as a disease with an indolent course with excellent long term prognosis a significant proportion with this condition will have lymph node metastasis at diagnosis. Clinicians need to be aware of the pathological characteristics, natural history and the internationally accepted treatment strategies when managing patients with micropapillary cancers as increasing numbers of patients are expected to be diagnosed with this condition due to widespread use of imaging modalities for numerous other indications. This brief review aims to summarize these aspects with emphasis on management.