American Board of Pathology (ABPath) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Papillary carcinoma is recognized as the most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for approximately 70-80% of all thyroid cancer cases. This type of cancer usually arises from the follicular cells of the thyroid and is characterized by its distinct histological features, including branching follicles and psammoma bodies. It typically has a good prognosis, especially when diagnosed at an early stage, as it tends to grow slowly and often remains localized within the thyroid gland.

The higher prevalence of papillary carcinoma compared to other types of thyroid cancers can be attributed to various factors, including genetic predispositions and environmental influences, as well as improved detection methods over time, leading to the identification of more cases. Its favorable response to treatments, such as surgery and radioactive iodine therapy, further contributes to the emphasis on recognizing papillary carcinoma as the predominant form of thyroid malignancy.