Follicular-patterned tumors of the thyroid: the battle of benign vs. malignant vs. so-called uncertain.

This article will review the controversial area of follicular-patterned thyroid tumors. The literature is discussed with emphasis on pathologic diagnosis and the criteria for malignancy. In addition, the current state of knowledge regarding molecular markers and their utility in diagnosing benign from malignant nodules is described. Finally, the apparent lack of consistency with regard to results of certain immunohistochemical markers is included.