All of the following are true about Lymphoma of the thyroid except:

Lymphoma of the thyroid is a rapidly growing malignancy similar to anaplastic carcinoma. Sabiston writes - "This diagnosis should be considered in patients who present with a goitre, especially one that has apparently grown significantly in a short period." Lymphoma Lymphoma is a rare malignancy of thyroid (< 1%). Most are of non-Hodgkin's B-cell type. Although the disease can arise as part of a generalized lymphomatous condition, most thyroid lymphomas develop in patients with chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (Hashimoto's ds.) Presenting symptoms are : - rapidly enlarging mass (similar to anaplastic ca but is often painless.) - acute respiratory distress - hoarseness - dysphagia - fever Diagnosis is usually suggested by FNA biopsy, although core needle or open biopsy may be necessary for definitive diagnosis. Treatment - Thyroid lymphoma responds rapidly to chemotherapy (CHOP - cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone) - Combined t/t with radiotherapy & chemotherapy is recommended. - Surgical resection is recommended to alleviate pressure symptoms.