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Luo N, Shi X, Xia Y, Gao L, Li X, Jiang Y. Risk factors for tumor enlargement in low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Endocrine 2024:10.1007/s12020-024-03812-5. [PMID: 38600392 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-024-03812-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The current management guidelines for low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) do not specify how to screen for growing tumors. We sought to explore the possible risk factors for tumor enlargement in patients with low-risk PTMC under active surveillance (AS). METHODS We searched the PubMed and Embase databases for high quality studies up to January 10th, 2024. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of the included studies, and Review Manager 5.4 was used to analyze possible risk factors and calculate pooled risk ratios (RRs) via the inverse-variance calculation method. RESULTS Eleven studies were included in our meta-analysis. Among the 8880 participants, 464 experienced tumor growth, and the incidence of tumor growth varied from 3.4% to 19.4%. The results of the meta-analysis showed that tumor enlargement was associated with younger age (pooled RR = 2.32, 95% CI = 1.85-2.90, p < 0.00001; 8 studies), and higher serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels (pooled RR = 2.28, 95% CI = 1.19-4.37, p = 0.01; 6 studies), and could be related to pregnancy (pooled RR = 2.54, 95% CI = 1.17-5.52, p = 0.02; 2 studies). However, these following factors showed no significant association with tumor growth: sex (pooled RR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.63-1.84, p = 0.79; 7 studies), tumor size at diagnosis (pooled RR = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.63-1.85, p = 0.77; 5 studies), and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) (pooled RR = 1.56, 95% CI = 0.93-2.60, p = 0.09; 2 studies). CONCLUSION Our analysis identified that younger age and higher serum TSH levels were higher risk factors for tumor enlargement in low-risk PTMC patients. Pregnancy is a suspected risk factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nengwen Luo
- Department of Ultrasound, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xinlong Shi
- Department of Ultrasound, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Ultrasound, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Luying Gao
- Department of Ultrasound, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyi Li
- Department of General Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxin Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Ju SH, Ji YB, Song M, Lim JY, Heo DB, Kim MG, Chang JW, Won HR, Kang YE, Ku EJ, Kim M, Lee EK, Choi JY, Yu HW, Park YJ, Choe JH, Koo BS. Feasibility of active surveillance in patients with clinically T1b papillary thyroid carcinoma ≤1.5 cm in preoperative ultrasonography: MASTER study. Eur Thyroid J 2024; 13:e230258. [PMID: 38484463 PMCID: PMC11046321 DOI: 10.1530/etj-23-0258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Active surveillance (AS) is generally accepted as an alternative to immediate surgery for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) measuring ≤1.0 cm (cT1a) without risk factors. This study investigated the clinicopathologic characteristics of PTCs measuring ≤2.0 cm without cervical lymph node metastasis (cT1N0) by tumor size group to assess the feasibility of AS for PTCs between 1.0 cm and 1.5 cm (cT1b≤1.5). Design This study enrolled clinically T1N0 patients with preoperative ultrasonography information (n= 935) from a cohort of 1259 patients who underwent lobectomy and were finally diagnosed with PTC from June 2020 to March 2022. Results The cT1b≤1.5 group (n = 171; 18.3 %) exhibited more lymphatic invasion and occult central lymph node (LN) metastasis with a higher metastatic LN ratio than the cT1a group (n = 719; 76.9 %). However, among patients aged 55 years or older, there were no significant differences in occult central LN metastasis and metastatic LN ratio between the cT1a, cT1b≤1.5, and cT1b>1.5 groups. Multivariate regression analyses revealed that occult central LN metastasis was associated with age, sex, tumor size, extrathyroidal extension, and lymphatic invasion in patients under 55, while in those aged 55 or older, it was associated only with age and lymphatic invasion. Conclusion For PTC patients aged 55 years or older with cT1b≤1.5, AS could be a viable option due to the absence of a significant relationship between tumor size and occult central LN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Hyeon Ju
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Bae Ji
- Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Minchul Song
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Joung Youl Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Da Beom Heo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Gyu Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Won Chang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Ryun Won
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Yea Eun Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eu Jeong Ku
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital Healthcare System Gangnam Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mijin Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Kyung Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Thyroid Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
| | - June Young Choi
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Won Yu
- Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Joo Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Ho Choe
- Division of Endocrine Surgery, Department of Surgery, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Bon Seok Koo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Wang Z, Ji X, Zhang H, Sun W. Clinical and molecular features of progressive papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. Int J Surg 2024; 110:2313-2322. [PMID: 38241301 PMCID: PMC11019976 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000001117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
In recent decades, the prevalence of thyroid cancer has risen substantially, with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) constituting over 50% of cases. Although most PTMCs exhibit indolent growth and a favorable prognosis, some present an increased risk of recurrence and an unfavorable prognosis due to high-risk characteristics such as lymph node metastasis, extrathyroidal extension, and distant metastasis. The early identification of clinically progressing PTMC remains elusive. In this review, the authors summarize findings from PTMC progression-related literature, highlighting that factors such as larger tumor size, cervical lymph node metastasis, extrathyroidal extension, younger age, higher preoperative serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, family history, and obesity positively correlate with PTMC progression. The role of multifocality in promoting PTMC progression; however, remains contentious. Furthermore, recent studies have shed light on the impact of mutations, such as BRAF and TERT mutations, on PTMC progression. Researchers have identified several mRNAs, noncoding RNAs, and proteins associated with various features of PTMC progression. Some studies propose that peripheral and tumor tissue-infiltrating immune cells could serve as biomarkers for the clinical progression of PTMC. Collectively, these clinical and molecular features offer a rationale for the early detection and the development of precision theranostic strategies of clinically progressive PTMC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, People’s Republic of China
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4
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Yamamoto M, Miyauchi A, Ito Y, Fujishima M, Sasaki T, Kudo T. Tumor volume-doubling rate is negatively associated with patient age in papillary thyroid microcarcinomas under active surveillance. Surgery 2024; 175:1089-1094. [PMID: 38142143 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2023.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Active surveillance of low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinomas has gained popularity worldwide as a management strategy. We previously reported that young age was associated with tumor enlargement by ≥3 mm. Here, we used the tumor volume-doubling rate to study the age-related tumor volume dynamics of papillary thyroid microcarcinomas under active surveillance. METHODS Between 2005 and 2019, 2,896 patients diagnosed with low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinomas underwent active surveillance. We excluded patients who underwent ultrasound examination fewer than 4 times, had coexisting Graves' disease, or were treated with levothyroxine at the time of diagnosis, and we enrolled 2,129 patients for this study. We divided them into 3 subsets based on the age at diagnosis: young (<40 years), middle-aged (40-59 years), and elderly (≥60 years). The tumor volume-doubling rate was calculated based on ultrasound-derived tumor sizes and the respective examination date for each patient. RESULTS Overall, 140 patients (6.6%) had moderate or rapid growth (tumor volume-doubling rate ≥0.3/year), and the incidence significantly decreased with advanced age (P < .01): 11.3%, 7.1%, and 5.0% in the young, middle-aged, and elderly groups, respectively. Tumor regression (tumor volume-doubling rate <0/year) was detected in 1,200 patients (56.4%), and the incidence significantly increased with age (P < .01): 44.6%, 55.3%, and 60.0% in the young, middle-aged, and elderly groups, respectively. On multivariate analysis, both the ≥60 years and 40 to 59 years age groups were independent negative predictors of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma enlargement and positive predictors of tumor regression. CONCLUSION Tumor volume-doubling rate analysis demonstrated that the incidence of tumor enlargement decreased and that of tumor regression increased with advancing age in patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yasuhiro Ito
- Department of Surgery, Kuma Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | | | - Takahiro Sasaki
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Kuma Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takumi Kudo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kuma Hospital, Kobe, Japan
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Le K, Jin L, Zhong F, Huang X, Zhou L, Zhou J, Xie L. Tumor growth manifested in two-fifths of low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma patients during active surveillance: data from a tertiary center in China. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1359621. [PMID: 38577570 PMCID: PMC10991742 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1359621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess tumor growth using tumor doubling rate (TDR) during active surveillance (AS) in China. Methods Between January 2016 and June 2020, a total of 219 patients with low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) (aged 23-75 years) were consecutively enrolled in the AS program. Results Four sections of TDR, >0.5, 0.1~0.5, -0.1~0.1 and <-0.1, corresponded with four categories of tumor volume kinetics: rapid growth, slow growth, stable, and decreased size. We found that 10.5% of PTMCs exhibited rapid growth, 33.33% exhibited slow growth, 26.48% were stable, and 29.68% decreased in size. Tumor growth was associated with two factors: age and volume of PTMC at diagnosis. 85.72% of elderly patients (≥ 61 years old) had tumors that remained stable or even shrank and rapidly growing tumors were not found in them. When the volume was small (≤14.13 mm3), the proportion of rapid growth was high (41.67%), whereas when the volume was large (> 179.5 mm3), the proportion of non-growth was 68.75%. Conclusion TDR may be a better metric for evaluating tumor growth in observational PTMCs. A certain proportion of PTMCs grow during the period of AS and tumor growth was associated with age and volume of PTMC at initial diagnosis. Therefore, how to block tumor growth during the AS period, especially for young patients and patients with early-stage PTMC (size ≤ 5 mm), will be a new challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kehao Le
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fangfang Zhong
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaojuan Huang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liang Zhou
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiamin Zhou
- Department of Technology, Hangzhou KuaikuaiKangfu Technology Co., LTD, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lei Xie
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, the Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Miyauchi A. Response to Xiang and Zhang re: "Active Surveillance Outcomes of Patients with Low-Risk Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma According to Levothyroxine Treatment Status". Thyroid 2024; 34:400-401. [PMID: 38226613 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
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Yoon JH, Choi W, Park JY, Hong AR, Kim HK, Kang HC. Active Surveillance for Low-Risk Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma as an Acceptable Management Option with Additional Benefits: A Comprehensive Systematic Review. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2024; 39:152-163. [PMID: 38417830 PMCID: PMC10901657 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2023.1794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGRUOUND Active surveillance (AS) has been introduced as a management strategy for low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) due to its typically indolent nature. Despite this, the widespread adoption of AS has encountered several challenges. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the safety of AS related to disease progression and its benefits compared with immediate surgery (IS). METHODS Studies related to AS in patients with low-risk PTC were searched through the Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and KoreaMed databases. Studies on disease progression, surgical complication, quality of life (QoL), and cost-effectiveness were separately analyzed and narratively synthesized. RESULTS In the evaluation of disease progression, the proportions of cases with tumor growth ≥3 mm and a volume increase >50% were 2.2%-10.8% and 16.0%-25.5%, respectively. Newly detected lymph node metastasis was identified in 0.0%-1.4% of patients. No significant difference was found between IS and delayed surgery in surgical complications, including vocal cord paralysis and postoperative hypoparathyroidism. AS was associated with better QoL than IS. Studies on the cost-effectiveness of AS reported inconsistent data, but AS was more cost-effective when quality-adjusted life years were considered. CONCLUSION AS is an acceptable management option for patients with low-risk PTC based on the low rate of disease progression and the absence of an increased mortality risk. AS has additional benefits, including improved QoL and greater QoL-based cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee Hee Yoon
- Department of Internal Medicine Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Wonsuk Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Ji Yong Park
- Department of Internal Medicine Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - A Ram Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Hee Kyung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
| | - Ho-Cheol Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Korea
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Kim KJ. It Is Time to Understand the Additional Benefits of Active Surveillance for Low-Risk Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2024; 39:95-97. [PMID: 38417827 PMCID: PMC10901663 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2024.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kyeong Jin Kim
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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9
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Gigliotti BJ, Jasim S. Differentiated thyroid cancer: a focus on post-operative thyroid hormone replacement and thyrotropin suppression therapy. Endocrine 2024; 83:251-258. [PMID: 37824045 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-023-03548-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This review focuses on post-operative thyroid hormone replacement and thyrotropin suppression therapy in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer. METHODS A clinical review. RESULTS Differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC), including papillary and follicular thyroid cancers, have an excellent prognosis and their management leverages a unique set of clinical tools arising from homology to the normal thyroid follicular cell. Surgery is the cornerstone of initial management, and post-operative care often requires thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which may be approached with the intent of physiologic normalization or used pharmacologically to suppress TSH as part of a DTC treatment. CONCLUSION Management of DTC and approaches to TSH suppression are tailored to an individual's risk of DTC recurrence and are adjusted to a patient's clinical status and comorbidities over time with the goal of mitigating risk and maximizing benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Gigliotti
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Sina Jasim
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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Smulever A, Pitoia F. Thirty years of active surveillance for low-risk thyroid cancer, lessons learned and future directions. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2024; 25:65-78. [PMID: 37833520 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-023-09844-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Active Surveillance is a non-invasive strategy designed to identify a minority of patients with low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma who might experience clinical progression and benefit from additional definitive treatments. Global experience suggests that these tumors typically show minimal changes in size during active surveillance, often demonstrating very slow growth or even size reduction. Moreover, the rate of lymph node metastases is low and can be effectively managed through rescue surgery, without impacting cancer-related mortality. However, despite 30 years of experience demonstrating the safety and feasibility of active surveillance for appropriately selected patients, this approach seems to have limited adoption in specific contexts. This limitation can be attributed to various barriers, including disparities in access to accurate information about the indolent nature of this disease and the prevalence of a maximalist mindset among certain patients and medical settings. This review aims to revisit the experience from the last three decades, provide current insights into the clinical outcomes of active surveillance trials, and propose a systematic approach for its implementation. Furthermore, it intends to emphasize the importance of precise patient selection and provides new perspectives in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabella Smulever
- Division of Endocrinology, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Buenos Aires, 2351, Argentina.
- Division of Endocrinology, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas A. Lanari, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Fabian Pitoia
- Division of Endocrinology, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Buenos Aires, 2351, Argentina
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Kim MJ, Moon JH, Lee EK, Song YS, Jung KY, Lee JY, Kim JH, Kim K, Park SK, Park YJ. Active Surveillance for Low-Risk Thyroid Cancers: A Review of Current Practice Guidelines. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2024; 39:47-60. [PMID: 38356210 PMCID: PMC10901665 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2024.1937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The indolent nature and favorable outcomes associated with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma have prompted numerous prospective studies on active surveillance (AS) and its adoption as an alternative to immediate surgery in managing low-risk thyroid cancer. This article reviews the current status of AS, as outlined in various international practice guidelines. AS is typically recommended for tumors that measure 1 cm or less in diameter and do not exhibit aggressive subtypes on cytology, extrathyroidal extension, lymph node metastasis, or distant metastasis. To determine the most appropriate candidates for AS, factors such as tumor size, location, multiplicity, and ultrasound findings are considered, along with patient characteristics like medical condition, age, and family history. Moreover, shared decision-making, which includes patient-reported outcomes such as quality of life and cost-effectiveness, is essential. During AS, patients undergo regular ultrasound examinations to monitor for signs of disease progression, including tumor growth, extrathyroidal extension, or lymph node metastasis. In conclusion, while AS is a feasible and reliable approach for managing lowrisk thyroid cancer, it requires careful patient selection, effective communication for shared decision-making, standardized follow-up protocols, and a clear definition of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Joo Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Kyung Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Young Shin Song
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul Metropolitan Government Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyong Yeun Jung
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nowon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Ye Lee
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Deparment of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-hoon Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Deparment of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyungsik Kim
- Deparment of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sue K. Park
- Deparment of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Integrated Major in Innovative Medical Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Joo Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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12
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Liu Q, Song M, Zhang H. Choice of management strategy for papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: active surveillance or immediate surgery? J Cancer 2024; 15:1009-1020. [PMID: 38230222 PMCID: PMC10788711 DOI: 10.7150/jca.91612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Overdiagnosis of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) is prevalent, and effective management of PTMC is an important matter. The high incidence and low mortality rate of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) justify the preference for active surveillance (AS) over immediate surgery (IS), particularly in cases of low-risk PTMC. Japan began AS in the 1990s as an alternative surgical option for PTMC and it has shown promising results. The safety and efficacy of AS management in PTMC have been verified. However, AS may not be suitable for all PTMC cases. How to find the balance between the decision-making of AS and IS requires careful consideration. Therefore, we collected and analyzed the relevant evidence on the clinical strategies for PTC and discussed AS and IS from the perspectives of health, economic, and psychological aspects, to help clinicians in choosing a more appropriate clinical strategy for PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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13
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Liu C, Zhao H, Lu Y, Xia Y, Cao Y, Zhang L, Zhao Y, Gao L, Liu R, Liu Y, Liu H, Meng Z, Li X. Criteria to Evaluate Tumor Enlargement During the Active Surveillance of High-Risk Thyroid Nodules: Which is Better, Diameter or Volume? World J Surg 2023; 47:3214-3221. [PMID: 37828412 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-023-07185-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tumor enlargement is the most common parameter identifying disease progression during active surveillance, but the value and significance of the changes in tumor diameter and volume in the evaluation of tumor growth have not been compared. METHODS This cohort study included 468 patients with high-risk thyroid nodule, in whom nodule size change was monitored using ultrasound, to compare the changes in tumor diameter and volume in assessing tumor growth. RESULTS A total of 569 high-risk thyroid nodules were found in the 468 patients. A total of 14 nodules (2.5%) showed a diameter increase ≥ 3 mm. The number of nodules with a peak volume change exceeding 50% and 100% was 185 (32.5%) and 86 (15.1%), respectively. Among the 555 stable nodules, the number of nodules with volume fluctuations exceeding 50% and 100% was 171 (30.8%) and 72 (13.0%), respectively. Among 212 stable nodules at the baseline and in the first three follow-up, the percentage of peak volume fluctuations exceeding 50% (48.5% vs. 28.5%, p = 0.004) and 100% (26.5% vs. 8.3%, p < 0.001) in the nodules with the sum of three diameters (SOTDs) ≤ 1 cm was significantly higher than that of nodules with SOTDs > 1 cm. A statistically significant difference was also found in the range distribution of SOTDs ≤ 1 cm and SOTDs > 1 cm (p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS Volume is not an appropriate method for determining tumor growth. Tumor diameter measurement alone serves as a better surrogate for disease progression in sonographically high-risk thyroid nodules than volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhao Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hao Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Ying Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yue Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Liyang Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Ya Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Luying Gao
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Ruifeng Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yuewu Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hongfeng Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Zhilan Meng
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaoyi Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Tuttle RM. Is There a Role for Levothyroxine Therapy in Euthyroid Patients on Active Surveillance for Papillary Microcarcinoma? Thyroid 2023; 33:1137-1139. [PMID: 37597198 PMCID: PMC10611958 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Michael Tuttle
- Endocrinology Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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15
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Yamamoto M, Miyauchi A, Ito Y, Fujishima M, Sasaki T, Kudo T. Active Surveillance Outcomes of Patients with Low-Risk Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma According to Levothyroxine Treatment Status. Thyroid 2023; 33:1182-1189. [PMID: 37310904 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: During active surveillance (AS), serum thyrotropin (TSH) levels may affect papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) progression. We investigated AS outcomes according to whether levothyroxine (LT4) treatment was administered. Patients and Methods: From 2005 to 2019, 2896 patients with low-risk PTMC underwent AS. Of these, 2509 patients were included: 2187 patients did not receive LT4 at diagnosis (group I), 1935 patients did not receive LT4 during AS (group IA), and 252 patients started LT4 during AS (group IB). The remaining 322 patients were administered LT4 before or at diagnosis (group II). The tumor volume doubling rate (TVDR) and tumor size based on ultrasound examination results and time-weighted detailed TSH scores were calculated. Disease progression was defined as tumor enlargement ≥3 mm and/or the appearance of novel lymph node metastasis. Results: At diagnosis, group II had more high-risk features, such as younger age and larger tumors, than group I. However, group II had a lower disease progression rate (2.9% at 10 years) than group I (6.1%) (p = 0.091). The disease progression rate of group IB (13.8% at 10 years) was significantly higher than that of groups IA (5.0%) and II (2.9%) (p < 0.01). The TVDR of group IB before LT4 administration was significantly higher than that of groups IA and II (0.095 per year, -0.0085 per year, and -0.057 per year, respectively; p < 0.01), suggesting that patients with progression signs during AS were selectively prescribed LT4. The time-weighted detailed TSH score of group IB significantly decreased after LT4 administration compared with those before administration (3.35 and 3.05, respectively; p < 0.01). The TVDR also decreased from 0.13 per year to 0.036 per year (p = 0.08). The proportions of patients with rapid or moderate growth decreased significantly after LT4 (from 26.8% to 12.5%, p < 0.01). A multivariable analysis revealed group IB status was independently associated with disease progression (odds ratio [OR] = 3.42 [CI 2.15-5.44], p < 0.01), whereas age ≥40 years and <60 years and age ≥60 years were independently negatively associated with this outcome (OR = 0.23 [CI 0.14-0.38, p < 0.01 and OR = 0.16 [CI 0.10-0.27], p < 0.01). Conclusion: LT4 treatment may be associated with decreased tumor growth during AS of PTMC, but further confirmatory research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yasuhiro Ito
- Department of Surgery, Kuma Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | | | - Takahiro Sasaki
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Kuma Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takumi Kudo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kuma Hospital, Kobe, Japan
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16
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Ito Y, Miyauchi A. Active Surveillance May Be the Best Initial Management for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad063. [PMID: 37287648 PMCID: PMC10243838 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Active surveillance for low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC; T1aN0MI) was initiated at Kuma Hospital (Kobe, Japan) in 1993, based on a proposal by Akira Miyauchi. Favorable outcomes of such surveillance have been reported. Our latest study revealed 5- and 10-year tumor enlargement rates (by ≥ 3 mm) of 3.0% and 5.5% and 5- and 10-year node metastasis appearance rates of 0.9% and 1.1%, respectively. The postoperative prognosis did not differ between patients who underwent immediate surgery and those who underwent conversion surgery after progression. These findings suggest that active surveillance may be the best initial management of PTMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Ito
- Department of Surgery, Kuma Hospital, Kobe , Hyogo 650-0011, Japan
| | - Akira Miyauchi
- Department of Surgery, Kuma Hospital, Kobe , Hyogo 650-0011, Japan
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17
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Smulever A, Pitoia F. Conservative management of low-risk papillary thyroid carcinoma: a review of the active surveillance experience. Thyroid Res 2023; 16:6. [PMID: 36907911 PMCID: PMC10009928 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-023-00148-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The detection of low-risk thyroid carcinoma has increased in recent decades, although disease-specific mortality remained without changes. The high prevalence of occult carcinomas in autopsy studies, and hence the underlying indolent course of this entity, prompted the emergence of active surveillance as an alternative approach to these tumors. This strategy aims to recognize the minority group of patients who will develop clinical progression and probably benefit from deferred surgery. Experience around the world has shown that during active surveillance these tumors are mostly unchanged in size, with very-slow growth and even a decrease in diameter. Moreover, the rates of lymph node metastases were low and easily handled by rescue surgery, and distant metastases have not been reported. Given the high prevalence of small thyroid carcinomas and the excellent outcomes for observation, active surveillance provides a safe and feasible alternative in properly selected patients with low-risk thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabella Smulever
- Division of Endocrinology, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires, Córdoba 2351, 5th floor, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fabian Pitoia
- Division of Endocrinology, Hospital de Clínicas, University of Buenos Aires, Córdoba 2351, 5th floor, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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18
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Sun H, Tong H, Shen X, Gao H, Kuang J, Chen X, Li Q, Qiu W, Liu Z, Yan J. Outcomes of Surgical Treatment for Graves' Disease: A Single-Center Experience of 216 Cases. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12041308. [PMID: 36835843 PMCID: PMC9968166 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12041308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of surgery in the treatment of Graves' disease (GD) needs to be revisited. The aims of the present retrospective study were to evaluate the outcomes of the current surgical strategy as a definitive treatment of GD at our center and to explore the clinical association between GD and thyroid cancer. METHODS A patient cohort of 216 cases from 2013 to 2020 was involved in this retrospective study. The data of the clinical characteristics and follow-up results were collected and analyzed. RESULTS There were 182 female and 34 male patients. The mean age was 43.9 ± 15.0 years old. The mean duration of GD reached 72.2 ± 92.7 months. Of the 216 cases, 211 had been treated with antithyroid drugs (ATDs) and hyperthyroidism had been completely controlled in 198 cases. A total (75%) or near-total (23.6%) thyroidectomy was performed. Intraoperative neural monitoring (IONM) was applied to 37 patients. The failure of ATD therapy (52.3%) was the most common surgical indication, followed by suspicion of a malignant nodule (45.8%). A total of 24 (11.1%) patients had hoarseness after the operation and 15 (6.9%) patients had transient vocal cord paralysis; 3 (1.4%) had this problem permanently. No bilateral RLN paralysis occurred. A total of 45 patients had hypoparathyroidism and 42 of them recovered within 6 months. Sex showed a correlation with hypoparathyroidism through a univariate analysis. A total of 2 (0.9%) patients underwent a reoperation because of hematomas. A total of 104 (48.1%) cases were diagnosed as thyroid cancer. In most cases (72.1%), the malignant nodules were microcarcinomas. A total of 38 patients had a central compartment node metastasis. A lateral lymph node metastasis occurred in 10 patients. Thyroid carcinomas were incidentally discovered in the specimens of 7 cases. The patients with concomitant thyroid cancer had a significant difference in body mass index, duration of GD, gland size, thyrotropin receptor antibodies and nodule(s) detected. CONCLUSION Surgical treatments for GD were effective, with a relatively low incidence of complications at this high-volume center. Concomitant thyroid cancer is one of the most important surgical indications for GD patients. Careful ultrasonic screening is necessary to exclude the presence of malignancies and to determine the therapeutic plan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jiqi Yan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-21-6437-0045
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