In this context, the possibility that MFT–or at least some of its foci in a given case–may precede the development of papillary carcinoma is tantalizing and may be further supported by partial alteration of HBME-1, cytokeratin 19, Galectin-3, and CD56 expression patterns. The gene discussed is NCAM1; the disease is thyroid gland papillary carcinoma.