Case report: Superficial soft tissue implantation metastases of oncocytic thyroid carcinoma: presentation of two complicated cases

Background Superficial soft tissue implantation metastases of oncocytic thyroid carcinoma are rare, especially following open surgeries, and are frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked. The objective of this study was to explore more characteristics of such cases, aiming to improve diagnostic accuracy. Case presentations Herein, we describe two middle-aged women with a history of prior thyroid surgery. One patient underwent repeated thyroid procedures; an initial diagnosis of follicular tumor of uncertain malignant potential (FT-UMP) was revised to oncocytic thyroid carcinoma on final histopathological examination. The second patient had a single prior thyroid operation, and oncocytic thyroid carcinoma was identified during evaluation for bone metastases. Contrast-enhanced CT revealed multiple cervical soft tissue implantation metastases in both patients. Conclusion These cases highlight the diagnostic pitfalls of implantation metastases from oncocytic thyroid carcinoma and underscore the importance of thorough pathological and surgical evaluation for patients with suspected recurrent disease.