Systems Pathology Exam 1 Practice

What mutation is commonly associated with follicular carcinoma?

Gain of function RAS gene mutation BRAF V600E mutation RET/PTC rearrangement PIK3CA mutation

Correct Answer:

Gain of function RAS gene mutation

Explanation:

A Ras gene mutation is a common driver of follicular-pattern thyroid tumors. When a Ras gene (NRAS, HRAS, or KRAS) acquires a gain-of-function mutation, it keeps the Ras protein in an active state, pushing signaling through pathways like MAPK and PI3K. This promotes the follicular architecture and the kind of growth and invasion seen in follicular carcinoma. In contrast, mutations and rearrangements like BRAF V600E and RET/PTC are more characteristic of papillary thyroid carcinoma, not follicular. PIK3CA mutations can occur in thyroid cancers but are not the hallmark feature of follicular carcinoma, making Ras mutations the best-supported association.

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