Thyroid Cancer in Young Adults

Anita K. Ying, Winston Huh, Sarah Bottomley, Douglas B. Evans, Steven G. Waguespack

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

The incidence of thyroid cancer in young adults is rising. Differentiated carcinoma (ie, papillary, follicular, and their variants) and medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) represent the two most common subtypes, with differing etiologies, prognoses, and management strategies. Ultrasound (US)-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) is the best initial test for evaluating a nodule or mass suspicious for malignancy. Tumor histology, in addition to radiographic findings and clinical presentation, guides surgical management, the need for adjuvant therapies, and the optimal approach to long-term follow-up. Radioactive iodine (RAI) is used to reduce recurrence and improve survival for differentiated thyroid carcinomas (DTCs). Emerging systemic therapies provide options for patients with progressive metastatic MTC or radio-resistant DTC. Overall, the prognosis for the most common thyroid malignancy, papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), is excellent. The treatment of young adult thyroid cancer patients occurs optimally as part of a multidisciplinary coordination of care.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)258-274
Number of pages17
JournalSeminars in oncology
Volume36
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2009

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Hematology
  • Oncology

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