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Shaghaghi A, Salari A, Jalaeefar A, Shirkhoda M. Management of lymph nodes in medullary thyroid carcinoma: A review. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2022; 81:104538. [PMID: 36147070 PMCID: PMC9486732 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) as a neuroendocrine tumor that arises from the parafollicular C-cells and shows a potentially aggressive behavior with early lymph node metastasis. MTC cells do not absorb radioactive iodine and are not sensitive to Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) suppression, and therefore surgery is the most effective option for curative therapy. Results Medical imaging and biomarkers (calcitonin & CEA) assessment are necessary to determine the appropriate approach to lymph nodes surgery in MTC. Prophylactic central, lateral or contralateral neck dissections are recommended based on calcitonin level and volume of tumor. In general, guidelines are in agreement with prophylactic central dissection in most cases. Central and lateral dissections are recommended in all guidelines and review articles if lymphadenopathy is confirmed in preoperative examinations. Because lymph node dissection in most cases of locally advanced or metastatic MTC has no prognostic effect, dissection is done with palliative goal with maximum attention to maintaining function in these cases. In patients with an incomplete lymph node dissection, decision for reoperation can be based on calcitonin levels and the number of metastatic lymph nodes removed in previous surgery. Symptoms as well as speed of disease progression are also important in adopting the type of surgery. Consensus is in favor of reoperation in patients with recurrent regional MTC without distant metastasis. Conclusion Thyroidectomy is mandatory in patients with MTC but the type and extension of lymph node dissection are depending on the calcitonin level and tumor burden. Surgery is the most effective treatment option for MTC. Prophylactic central, lateral or contralateral neck dissections are recommended based on calcitonin level. Therapeutic central and lateral dissection is recommended if lymphadenopathy is confirmed. In locally advanced or metastatic MTC dissection is done with maximum attention to maintaining function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Shaghaghi
- Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of General Surgery, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Salari
- Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirmohsen Jalaeefar
- Department of General Surgery, Subdivision of Surgical Oncology, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shirkhoda
- Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding author. Department of Oncosurgery, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
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2
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Jassal K, Ravintharan N, Prabhakaran S, Grodski S, Serpell JW, Lee JC. Preoperative serum calcitonin may improve initial surgery for medullary thyroid cancer in patients with indeterminate cytology. ANZ J Surg 2022; 92:1428-1433. [PMID: 35412008 PMCID: PMC9321997 DOI: 10.1111/ans.17690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is rare, with poorer outcomes than differentiated thyroid cancer. We aimed to identify areas for improvement in the pre-operative evaluation of patients with possible MTC in a high-volume endocrine surgery unit in accordance with current practice guidelines. We hypothesised that the selective use of serum calcitonin (sCT) as a biomarker for possible MTC could guide the extent of initial surgical management. METHODS We recruited MTC patients between 2000 and 2020 from the Monash University Endocrine Surgery Unit database. Demographics, tumour characteristics, pre-operative evaluation, operative management, and outcomes were analysed. RESULTS Of 1454 thyroid cancer patients, 43 (3%) had MTC. Pre-operatively, 36 (84%) patients with MTC confirmed on cytology (28, 65%), elevated sCT (6, 14%) or RET mutation (2, 4%). Of these 36 patients, 31 (86%) had optimal extent of thyroidectomy and lymph node dissection (LND). Five (14%) had less than total thyroidectomy due to nerve injury. Thirty-four patients had compartmental LND. In the 12 (27%) patients with indeterminate or non-diagnostic cytology, 5 had elevated sCT and were managed as above. None of the remaining seven had LND, thus potentially suboptimal surgery. CONCLUSION Our findings reflect the rarity of MTC, and the challenges of pre-operative diagnosis. The addition of sCT may improve surgical planning in patients with indeterminate cytology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karishma Jassal
- Monash University Endocrine Surgery Unit, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nandhini Ravintharan
- Monash University Endocrine Surgery Unit, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Swetha Prabhakaran
- Monash University Endocrine Surgery Unit, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simon Grodski
- Monash University Endocrine Surgery Unit, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Serpell
- Monash University Endocrine Surgery Unit, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - James C Lee
- Monash University Endocrine Surgery Unit, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Jager EC, Broekman KE, Kruijff S, Links TP. State of the art and future directions in the systemic treatment of medullary thyroid cancer. Curr Opin Oncol 2022; 34:1-8. [PMID: 34669647 DOI: 10.1097/cco.0000000000000798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Systemic treatment is the only therapeutic option for patients with progressive, metastatic medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Since the discovery of the rearranged during transfection (RET) proto-oncogene (100% hereditary, 60-90% sporadic MTC), research has focused on finding effective systemic therapies to target this mutation. This review surveys recent findings. RECENT FINDINGS Multikinase inhibitors are systemic agents targeting angiogenesis, inhibiting growth of tumor cells and cells in the tumor environment and healthy endothelium. In the phase III EXAM and ZETA trials, cabozantinib and vandetanib showed progression-free survival benefit, without evidence of prolonged overall survival. Selpercatinib and pralsetinib are kinase inhibitors with high specificity for RET; phase I and II studies showed overall response rates of 73% and 71% in first line, and 69% and 60% in second line treatment, respectively. Although resistance mechanisms to mutation-driven therapy will be a challenge in the future, phase III studies are ongoing and neo-adjuvant therapy with selpercatinib is being studied. SUMMARY The development of selective RET-inhibitors has expanded the therapeutic arsenal to control tumor growth in progressive MTC, with fewer adverse effects than multikinase inhibitors. Future studies should confirm their effectiveness, study neo-adjuvant strategies, and tackle resistance to these inhibitors, ultimately to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Schelto Kruijff
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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4
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Machens A, Kaatzsch P, Lorenz K, Horn LC, Wickenhauser C, Schmid KW, Dralle H, Siebolts U. Abandoning node dissection for desmoplasia-negative encapsulated unifocal sporadic medullary thyroid cancer. Surgery 2021; 171:360-367. [PMID: 34602296 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2021.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Predictive criteria to determine the absence of node metastases from thyroid specimens are scarce for sporadic medullary thyroid cancer. METHODS Histopathologic stratification of patients with unifocal sporadic medullary thyroid cancer ≤25 mm with ≥10 neck nodes at thyroidectomy to evaluate the suitability of desmoplasia (7 increments) and tumor capsule integrity (5 decrements) for intraoperative prediction of node metastasis in unifocal sporadic medullary thyroid cancer. RESULTS Paraffin-embedded thyroid specimens were available for 139 eligible patients. Significant (P < .001) associations were found between increasing desmoplasia and decreasing tumor capsule integrity and nodal disease (from 0 to 79% and 0 to 62%); the number of node metastases (medians, from 0 to 3 and 0 to 2 nodes); and biochemical cure (from 100 to 36% and 100 to 58%). Desmoplasia (low-moderate to high, with fibrosis >10%) and breach of the tumor capsule (>3 extensions; 1 extension >3 mm in width; or diffuse growth without tumor capsule) yielded excellent sensitivity and negative predictive value (100%), with moderate specificity (57 and 48%) and positive predictive value (50 and 46%). In retrospect, node dissection proved unnecessary in 55 (57%) and 47 (48%) patients who harbored desmoplasia-negative and encapsulated tumors. When available frozen sections were histopathologically compared with matching paraffin-embedded thyroid tumor specimens, concordance was 98% (53 of 54 pairs): 1 of 7 upgrades changed the diagnosis to desmoplasia, whereas 1 of 3 downgrades shifted the diagnosis of tumor capsule breach from "present" to "absent." CONCLUSIONS Patients with desmoplasia-negative encapsulated sporadic medullary thyroid cancer may forgo node dissection at specialist centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Machens
- Department of Visceral, Vascular, and Endocrine Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Peter Kaatzsch
- Department of Pathology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Kerstin Lorenz
- Department of Visceral, Vascular, and Endocrine Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | | - Claudia Wickenhauser
- Department of Pathology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | | - Henning Dralle
- Department of Visceral, Vascular, and Endocrine Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany; Department of General, Visceral, and Transplantation Surgery, Section of Endocrine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Udo Siebolts
- Department of Pathology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
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Spanheimer PM, Ganly I, Chou JF, Capanu M, Nigam A, Ghossein RA, Tuttle RM, Wong RJ, Shaha AR, Brennan MF, Untch BR. Prophylactic Lateral Neck Dissection for Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma is not Associated with Improved Survival. Ann Surg Oncol 2021; 28:6572-6579. [PMID: 33748897 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-021-09683-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) often receive lateral lymph node dissection with total thyroidectomy when calcitonin levels are elevated, even in the absence of structural disease, but the effect of this intervention on disease-specific outcomes is not known. PATIENTS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed patients from 1986 to 2017 who underwent thyroidectomy with curative intent for MTC at our institution. The association of disease-specific survival and clinicopathologic features was examined using univariate and multivariate Cox regression. RESULTS We identified 316 patients who underwent curative resection for MTC. Overall and disease-specific survival were 76% and 86%, respectively, at 10 years. To investigate the effect of prophylactic ipsilateral lateral lymph node dissection, we analyzed 89 patients without known structural disease in the neck lymph nodes at the time of resection and preoperative calcitonin > 200 pg/ml, of whom 45 had an ipsilateral lateral lymph node dissection (LND) and 44 did not. There were no differences in tumor size or preoperative calcitonin levels. There was no difference at 10 years in cumulative incidence of recurrence in the neck (20.9% LND vs. 30.4% no LND, p = 0.46), cumulative incidence of distant recurrence (18.3% vs. 18.4%, p = 0.97), disease-specific survival (86% vs. 93%, p = 0.53), or overall survival (82% vs. 90%, p = 0.6). CONCLUSION Lateral neck dissection in the absence of clinical or radiologic abnormal lymph nodes is not associated with improved survival in patients with MTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip M Spanheimer
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ian Ganly
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joanne F Chou
- Department of Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marinela Capanu
- Department of Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aradhya Nigam
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ronald A Ghossein
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - R Michael Tuttle
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard J Wong
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ashok R Shaha
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Murray F Brennan
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian R Untch
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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6
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Bae SY, Jung SP, Choe JH, Kim JS, Kim JH. Prediction of lateral neck lymph node metastasis according to preoperative calcitonin level and tumor size for medullary thyroid carcinoma. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2019; 35:772-777. [PMID: 31483088 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) accounts up to 10% of all thyroid cancers, but is responsible for a disproportionate number of deaths. While surgery is the only curative treatment for MTC, indications for lateral neck lymph node (LLN) dissection are controversial. We performed a retrospective review to describe clinical outcomes in 93 MTC patients from July 1995 to March 2015. We analyzed their clinicopathologic factors, and cut-off values of tumor size and calcitonin levels were calculated using a receiver operating characteristic curve. Using the instances of lymph node metastases, the tumor size cut-off value was 0.95 cm (area under curve, AUC = 0.697) in patients with ipsilateral central lymph node (CLN) metastases, 2.25 cm (AUC = 0.793) in contralateral CLN metastases, and 1.75 cm (AUC = 0.753) in ipsilateral LLN metastases. The cut-off values of preoperative calcitonin levels were 226.6 pg/mL (AUC = 0.746) in ipsilateral CLN, 755.0 pg/mL (AUC = 0.840) in contralateral CLN metastases, and 237.0 pg/mL (AUC = 0.775) in ipsilateral LLN metastases. This study supports the notion that ipsilateral LLN metastases occur before contralateral CLN metastases. Therefore, ipsilateral LLN dissection should be considered in patients with contralateral CLN metastases. The extent of surgery should be based on the status of LN metastases, preoperative basal calcitonin level, and tumor size to help individualize the extent of surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soo Y Bae
- Department of Surgery, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung P Jung
- Department of Surgery, Korea University Anam Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Ho Choe
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee S Kim
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung H Kim
- Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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7
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Ahn SH, Chung EJ. Significance of neck dissection for the treatment of clinically-evident medullary thyroid carcinomas: A systematic review. Auris Nasus Larynx 2019; 46:417-423. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anl.2018.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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8
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Machens A, Lorenz K, Dralle H. Time to calcitonin normalization after surgery for node-negative and node-positive medullary thyroid cancer. Br J Surg 2019; 106:412-418. [DOI: 10.1002/bjs.11071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
It remains unclear when postoperative serum calcitonin levels should be measured in patients with medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and, specifically, whether this decision should be based on the preoperative calcitonin level or nodal status.
Methods
A cohort of patients with previously untreated MTC was studied. Kaplan–Meier analyses, stratified by preoperative calcitonin level, nodal status and number of nodal metastases, were performed to determine time to calcitonin normalization after initial surgery, with statistical analysis by means of the log rank test.
Results
Some 213 patients with node-negative and 182 with node-positive MTC were included in the study. Postoperative calcitonin levels normalized in a mean of 3·5 versus 3·7 days respectively among patients with preoperative calcitonin levels of 10–100 pg/ml (P = 0·815); 4·8 versus 5·3 days in those with preoperative calcitonin levels of 100·1–500 pg/ml (P = 0·026); 5·3 versus 9·9 days in patients with preoperative calcitonin levels of 500·1–1000 pg/ml (P = 0·004); and 6·6 versus 57·7 days among those with preoperative calcitonin levels exceeding 1000 pg/ml (P < 0·001). Calcitonin levels normalized in a mean of 4·7 days when nodal metastasis was not present, 5·2 days in those with one to five nodal metastases, 7·0 days in patients with six to ten nodal metastases, and 57·1 days among patients with more than ten nodal metastases. Postoperative calcitonin normalization curves paralleled each other in patients with node-negative MTC, but diverged in those with node-positive disease and with more nodal metastases.
Conclusion
Calcitonin levels typically normalize within 1 week; and within a fortnight in those with node-positive MTC and preoperative calcitonin levels of 500·1–1000 pg/ml. With node-positive MTC and preoperative calcitonin levels exceeding 1000 pg/ml, and with more than ten nodal metastases, calcitonin normalization takes longer.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Machens
- Medical Faculty, Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - K Lorenz
- Medical Faculty, Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - H Dralle
- Medical Faculty, Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Section of Endocrine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Polistena A, Sanguinetti A, Lucchini R, Galasse S, Monacelli M, Avenia S, Boccolini A, Johnson LB, Avenia N. Timing and extension of lymphadenectomy in medullary thyroid carcinoma: A case series from a single institution. Int J Surg 2017; 41 Suppl 1:S70-S74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2017.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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10
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Ying R, Feng J. Clinical significance of RET mutation screening in a pedigree of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A. Mol Med Rep 2016; 14:1413-7. [PMID: 27277749 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2016.5371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical characteristics and RET proto-oncogene (RET‑PO) mutation status of a patient with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A pedigree (MEN2A) was analyzed with the aim of preliminarily exploring the molecular mechanisms and clinical significance of the disease. Clinical characteristics of a single MEN2A patient were analyzed. Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood of the proband and 10 family members. The 21 exons of RET‑PO were PCR amplified and the amplified products were sequenced. Of the family members, 5 exhibited a C634Y (TGC→TAC) missense mutation in exon 11 of RET‑PO, among which 2 family members were screened as mutation carriers, while the others did not exhibit clinical symptoms of the mutation. The screening and analysis of RET‑PO mutations for the MEN2A proband and the family members suggests potential clinical phenotypes and enables assessment of the risk of disease development, thus providing useful information for determining the surgical timing of preventive thyroid gland removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongbiao Ying
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Taizhou Cancer Hospital, Taizhou Branch of Fudan University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 317502, P.R. China
| | - Jun Feng
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Taizhou Cancer Hospital, Taizhou Branch of Fudan University, Taizhou, Zhejiang 317502, P.R. China
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SIMÕES-PEREIRA JOANA, BUGALHO MARIAJOÃO, LIMBERT EDWARD, LEITE VALERIANO. Retrospective analysis of 140 cases of medullary thyroid carcinoma followed-up in a single institution. Oncol Lett 2016; 11:3870-3874. [PMID: 27313709 PMCID: PMC4888200 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.4482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial cases of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) may be diagnosed by genetic screening, while in sporadic tumors the diagnosis relies mainly on fine-needle aspiration cytology. The aim of the present study was to determine the demographic, clinical and pathological characteristics of MTC patients followed-up at the Portuguese Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil (Lisbon, Portugal). For that purpose, a retrospective analysis of 140 MTC patients diagnosed between 1990 and 2010 was performed. The results indicated that patients with hereditary MTC (11.4%) were significantly younger than patients with sporadic MTC. Of the latter, 34.3% had no clinical suspicion of MTC prior to surgery. The sensitivity of cytology and calcitonin (CT) assay in diagnosing MTC were 51.3 and 98.7%, respectively. All familial index cases and 69.0% of sporadic cases presented with advanced stage disease at the time of diagnosis, while 73.0% of familial MTC detected by genetic/pentagastrin screening were diagnosed at the early stage of the disease. Biochemical cure (BC) was achieved in 39.7% of patients and, of these, only 6.5% relapsed. The 5 and 10-year survival rates were 79.3 and 73.6%, respectively. Age >45 years (P=0.026), advanced stage at diagnosis (P<0.001) and absence of BC (P<0.001) were predictors of a worse prognosis on univariate analysis. However, when the patients detected by genetic/pentagastrin screening were excluded from the analysis, age was no longer a prognostic factor, although disease stage remained a significant prognostic factor. On multivariate analysis, BC was the only factor with a significant impact on prognosis (P=0.031). In addition, the present study confirmed that the majority of patients were diagnosed at advanced stages, and CT determination was observed to be more sensitive than cytology to diagnose MTC. Patients at early stages were more prone to achieve BC, which was a favorable prognostic factor. To the best of our knowledge, the present study reports for the first time that age at diagnosis is not a predictor of survival for patients with MTC when cases diagnosed by genetic/pentagastrin screening (who are usually young patients at the initial stages of the disease), are excluded from the analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- JOANA SIMÕES-PEREIRA
- Department of Endocrinology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil, Lisbon 1099-023, Portugal
| | - MARIA JOÃO BUGALHO
- Department of Endocrinology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil, Lisbon 1099-023, Portugal
| | - EDWARD LIMBERT
- Department of Endocrinology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil, Lisbon 1099-023, Portugal
| | - VALERIANO LEITE
- Department of Endocrinology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology Francisco Gentil, Lisbon 1099-023, Portugal
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12
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Siironen P, Hagström J, Mäenpää HO, Louhimo J, Arola J, Haglund C. Lymph node metastases and elevated postoperative calcitonin: Predictors of poor survival in medullary thyroid carcinoma. Acta Oncol 2015; 55:357-64. [PMID: 26339947 DOI: 10.3109/0284186x.2015.1070963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background Total thyroidectomy is the treatment of choice for medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), but the extent of neck dissection is controversial. Lymph node metastases, distant metastases, and old age are known predictors of poor survival. Patients Patients treated for primary MTC at Helsinki University Hospital from 1990 to 2009 were included (n = 54). Their clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcome were analysed retrospectively, these patients were followed until death or their last follow-up date. Results At last follow-up (3.4-23 years), of 54 MTC patients, 19 (35%) were disease-free, 17 (32%) were alive with disease, and 12 (22%) had died of MTC; six patients died of unrelated causes (11%). All disease-free patients were node negative and had normal postoperative calcitonin level. Of 19 disease-free patients, only four (21%) had undergone lymph node dissection. All patients who died of MTC were Stage IV at diagnosis and died with distant metastases. Disease-specific five-and 10-year survival was 84% and 76.2%. Advanced T-stage (p = 0.004), lymph node metastases (p < 0.001), distant metastases (p < 0.001), stage (p < 0.001), and elevated postoperative calcitonin (p < 0.001) significantly associated with survival. Conclusions Lymph node metastasis and elevated postoperative calcitonin are important prognostic factors. Patients with lymph node metastasis and/or elevated postoperative calcitonin with present treatments cannot become disease-free, but most of them can live a long life with metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Päivi Siironen
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jaana Hagström
- Department of Pathology, Haartman Institute and HUSLab, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna O. Mäenpää
- Department of Oncology, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland, and
| | - Johanna Louhimo
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Arola
- Department of Pathology, Haartman Institute and HUSLab, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Caj Haglund
- Department of Surgery, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
- Research Programs Unit, Translational Cancer Biology, University of Helsinki, Finland
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13
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Breach of the thyroid capsule and lymph node capsule in node-positive papillary and medullary thyroid cancer: Different biology. Eur J Surg Oncol 2015; 41:766-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2014.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2014] [Revised: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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14
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Rowland KJ, Moley JF. Hereditary thyroid cancer syndromes and genetic testing. J Surg Oncol 2014; 111:51-60. [DOI: 10.1002/jso.23769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J. Rowland
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery; Barnes Jewish Hospital, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine; St. Louis Missouri
| | - Jeffrey F. Moley
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery; Barnes Jewish Hospital, Department of Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine; St. Louis Missouri
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Balentine CJ, Chen H. Chasing Calcitonin: Reoperations for Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2014; 22:7-8. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-014-4109-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Rowland KJ, Jin LX, Moley JF. Biochemical cure after reoperations for medullary thyroid carcinoma: a meta-analysis. Ann Surg Oncol 2014; 22:96-102. [PMID: 25234024 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-014-4102-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite meticulous surgical techniques, calcitonin levels remain detectable in 40 % to 66 % of patients after initial surgery for medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), and the optimal surgical management for persistent or recurrent disease remains controversial. Previous studies suggest that biochemical cure, defined by normalization of postoperative calcitonin measurements, predicts disease-free survival. Reoperative approaches range from targeted removal of detectable disease to comprehensive compartment-oriented lymph node clearance. METHODS A proportional meta-analysis of clinical case series of postoperative calcitonin clearance after reoperation for MTC was performed. Studies were obtained from PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. RESULTS Twenty-seven articles capturing data of 984 patients met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. Overall, normalization of calcitonin after reoperation for MTC occurred in 16.2 % of patients [95 % confidence interval (CI) 14.0-18.5]. Stratified by operative procedure, targeted selective lymph node removal procedures had a normalization of calcitonin in 10.5 % of patients (95 % CI 6.4-14.7), while compartment-oriented procedures had a higher rate of normalization at 18.6 % (95 % CI 15.9-21.3). CONCLUSIONS The rate of calcitonin normalization after reoperation for MTC is enhanced through use of a meticulous compartment-oriented lymph node dissection. Compartment-oriented lymph node dissection results in calcitonin normalization in 18.6 % of reoperative MTC patients and is the procedure of choice in patients in whom the goal is biochemical cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J Rowland
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Prokopakis E, Doulaptsi M, Kaprana A, Velegrakis S, Vlastos Y, Velegrakis G. Treating medullary thyroid carcinoma in a tertiary center. Current trends and review of the literature. Hippokratia 2014; 18:130-134. [PMID: 25336875 PMCID: PMC4201398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We present the clinical outcome and long-term survival in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma treated in a tertiary center. A thorough review of published series and current therapeutic approaches is also addressed. STUDY DESIGN A retrospective review. SETTING An Academic Tertiary center. SUBJECTS/METHODS An analysis of oncologic outcomes from 25 patients treated in our department for medullary thyroid carcinoma is performed, together with a comparison of relevant studies over the literature. RESULTS The incidence of patients alive free of disease and the 5-year survival rate has been noticed to be slightly higher than the rate reported in most series. CONCLUSIONS Total thyroidectomy and neck dissection remains the gold standard in the treatment of medullary thyroid carcinoma. Early diagnosis and aggressive surgical treatment lead to lower rates of recurrence and invasiveness. Tyrosine-kinase inhibitor, especially vantetanib, appears to be a promising target for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Prokopakis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion Crete, Greece
| | - M Doulaptsi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion Crete, Greece
| | - A Kaprana
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion Crete, Greece
| | - S Velegrakis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion Crete, Greece
| | - Y Vlastos
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion Crete, Greece
| | - G Velegrakis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Heraklion Crete, Greece
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Dionigi G, Bianchi V, Rovera F, Boni L, Piantanida E, Tanda ML, Dionigi R, Bartalena L. Medullary thyroid carcinoma: surgical treatment advances. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2014; 7:877-85. [PMID: 17555398 DOI: 10.1586/14737140.7.6.877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Since medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) was first recognized as a distinct tumor in 1959, it became clear that MTC is more difficult to cure than papillary thyroid cancer and has higher rates of recurrence and mortality. MTC represents 5-8% of thyroid cancers. It derives from parafollicular cells of the ultimobranchial body derived from the neural crest. MTC secretes calcitonin and other hormonal peptides and is considered part of the amine precursor uptake and decarboxilation system. MTC may occur either as a hereditary or nonhereditary entity. Hereditary MTC can occur either alone as the familial MTC or as the thyroid manifestation of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type 2 syndromes (MEN 2A MEN 2B). Activating point mutations of the RET proto-oncogene have demonstrated to be causative of the familial form of medullary thyroid cancer, both isolated familial MTC and associated with MEN 2A and 2B. In the last 10 years, major improvements and new technologies have been proposed and applied in thyroid surgery; among these are molecular diagnosis with genetic screening and mini-invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy. The history of thyroid surgery starts with Billroth, Kocher and Halsted, who developed the technique for thyroidectomy between 1873 and 1910. Prophylactic surgery for patients carrying a positive RET proto-oncogene has proven to be highly effective in curing those likely to experience the development of MTC. Video-assisted procedures with central compartment dissection have proved feasible for patients carrying a positive RET proto-oncogene. This paper reviews relevant medical literature published in the English language on surgery of MTC in well-controlled trials. We discuss the particular ethical and legal issues that thyroid prophylactic surgery raises. Searches were last updated in February 2007.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianlorenzo Dionigi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Insubria, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitario, Fondazione Macchi 57, Varese, Italy.
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Dahlberg J, Bümming P, Gjertsson P, Jansson S. Routine preoperative 111In-octreotide scintigraphy in patients with medullary thyroid cancer. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2013; 398:875-80. [DOI: 10.1007/s00423-013-1086-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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21
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Gimm O. Extent of surgery in clinically evident but operable MTC - when is central and/or lateral lympadenectomy indicated? Thyroid Res 2013; 6 Suppl 1:S3. [PMID: 23514526 PMCID: PMC3599729 DOI: 10.1186/1756-6614-6-s1-s3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) metastasizes very early lymphogeneously. It has been shown that the presence of lymph node metastases is associated with a worse outcome. Postoperative biochemical cure, i.e. normalization of posttherapeutical calcitonin levels, has been shown to correlate with a better outcome. The rate of biochemical cure decreases dramatically in the presence of lymph node metastases but can still be achieved in about 30-40% of patients despite the presence of lymph node metastases.In 2009, the American Thyroid Association (ATA) published guidelines on the management of MTC. Various recommendations in the guidelines are dealing with the extent of lymph node dissection in different clinical settings. This article summarizes and comments on these recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Gimm
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden.
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Prognostic impact of N staging in 715 medullary thyroid cancer patients: proposal for a revised staging system. Ann Surg 2013; 257:323-9. [PMID: 22968075 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0b013e318268301d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This institutional study aimed at quantifying a medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) patient's risk of lung, liver, or bone metastasis. BACKGROUND Without quantitative information regarding risk factors for lung, liver, and bone metastasis, risk stratification is liable to be haphazard, resulting in poor cost-effectiveness of screening programs. METHODS Included in this study were 715 patients with MTC for whom histopathologic information was available for each lymph node removed. RESULTS Seventy-two patients (10.1%) were diagnosed with lung metastasis, 58 patients (8.1%) with liver metastasis, and 34 patients (4.8%) with bone metastasis. Multivariate analyses were limited to patients revealing no more than 1 type of distant metastasis to avoid confounding by other distant metastasis. Extrathyroidal extension and 1 to 10 involved nodes indicated a small risk of lung metastasis [3%-4%; odds ratio (OR) 3-4], tumors greater than 40 mm and 11 to 20 involved nodes implied an intermediate risk (13%; OR 6), and more than 20 involved nodes entailed a high risk (26%-30%; OR 14-16). In the multivariate logistic regressions on liver and bone metastasis, in which the number of involved nodes was omitted on statistic grounds, extrathyroidal extension signified a strong risk of liver metastasis (19%, OR 23), whereas no clinical-pathologic variables were significantly associated with bone metastasis. Cumulative rates of lung, liver, and bone metastasis, plotted against the number of lymph node metastases, were similar. DISCUSSION N categories encompassing 1 to 10 (N1), 11 to 20 (N2), and more than 20 (N3) lymph node metastases are important prognostic classifiers that should be incorporated into MTC staging systems for better risk stratification.
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Dralle H, Musholt TJ, Schabram J, Steinmüller T, Frilling A, Simon D, Goretzki PE, Niederle B, Scheuba C, Clerici T, Hermann M, Kußmann J, Lorenz K, Nies C, Schabram P, Trupka A, Zielke A, Karges W, Luster M, Schmid KW, Vordermark D, Schmoll HJ, Mühlenberg R, Schober O, Rimmele H, Machens A. German Association of Endocrine Surgeons practice guideline for the surgical management of malignant thyroid tumors. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2013; 398:347-75. [PMID: 23456424 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-013-1057-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Over the past years, the incidence of thyroid cancer has surged not only in Germany but also in other countries of the Western hemisphere. This surge was first and foremost due to an increase of prognostically favorable ("low risk") papillary thyroid microcarcinomas, for which limited surgical procedures are often sufficient without loss of oncological benefit. These developments called for an update of the previous practice guideline to detail the surgical treatment options that are available for the various disease entities and tumor stages. METHODS The present German Association of Endocrine Surgeons practice guideline was developed on the basis of clinical evidence considering current national and international treatment recommendations through a formal expert consensus process in collaboration with the German Societies of General and Visceral Surgery, Endocrinology, Nuclear Medicine, Pathology, Radiooncology, Oncological Hematology, and a German thyroid cancer patient support organization. RESULTS The practice guideline for the surgical management of malignant thyroid tumors includes recommendations regarding preoperative workup; classification of locoregional nodes and terminology of surgical procedures; frequency, clinical, and histopathological features of occult and clinically apparent papillary, follicular, poorly differentiated, undifferentiated, and sporadic and hereditary medullary thyroid cancers, thyroid lymphoma and thyroid metastases from primaries outside the thyroid gland; extent of thyroidectomy; extent of lymph node dissection; aerodigestive tract resection; postoperative follow-up and surgery for recurrence and distant metastases. CONCLUSION These evidence-based recommendations for surgical therapy reflect various "treatment corridors" that are best discussed within multidisciplinary teams and the patient considering tumor type, stage, progression, and inherent surgical risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henning Dralle
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Straße 40, 06097, Halle, Saale, Germany.
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Elisei R, Alevizaki M, Conte-Devolx B, Frank-Raue K, Leite V, Williams G. 2012 European thyroid association guidelines for genetic testing and its clinical consequences in medullary thyroid cancer. Eur Thyroid J 2013; 1:216-31. [PMID: 24783025 PMCID: PMC3821492 DOI: 10.1159/000346174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2012] [Revised: 11/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Twenty-five percent of medullary thyroid cancers (MTC) are familial and inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. Three different phenotypes can be distinguished: multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) types 2A and 2B, in which the MTC is associated with other endocrine neoplasias, and familial MTC (FMTC), which occurs in isolation. The discovery that germline RET oncogene activating mutations are associated with 95-98% of MEN 2/FMTC syndromes and the availability of genotyping to identify mutations in affected patients and their relatives has revolutionized the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies available for the management of these patients. All patients with MTC, both those with a positive familial history and those apparently sporadic, should be submitted to RET genetic screening. Once an RET mutation has been confirmed in an index patient, first-degree relatives should be screened rapidly to identify the 50% who inherited the mutation and are therefore at risk for development of MTC. Relatives in whom no RET mutation is identified can be reassured and discharged from further follow-up, whereas RET-positive subjects (i.e. gene carriers) must be investigated and a therapeutic strategy initiated. These guideline recommendations are derived from the most recent studies identifying phenotype-genotype correlations following the discovery of causative RET gene mutations in MEN 2 eighteen years ago. Three major points will be discussed: (a) identification of patients and relatives who should have genetic screening for RET mutations, (b) management of asymptomatic gene carriers, and (c) ethics.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Elisei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- *Dr. Rossella Elisei, Department of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Via Paradisa 2, IT–56124 Pisa (Italy), E-Mail
| | - M. Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medical Therapeutics, Athens University School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - B. Conte-Devolx
- Department of Endocrinology, La Timone Hospital, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - K. Frank-Raue
- Endocrine Practice, Molecular Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - V. Leite
- Department of Endocrinology, Portuguese Institute of Oncology and CEDOC, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - G.R. Williams
- Molecular Endocrinology Group, Department of Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Coxon A, Bready J, Kaufman S, Estrada J, Osgood T, Canon J, Wang L, Radinsky R, Kendall R, Hughes P, Polverino A. Anti-tumor activity of motesanib in a medullary thyroid cancer model. J Endocrinol Invest 2012; 35:181-90. [PMID: 21422803 DOI: 10.3275/7609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is frequently associated with mutations in the tyrosine kinase Ret and with increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2). Motesanib is an investigational, orally administered small molecule antagonist of VEGFR1, 2, and 3; platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR); Kit; and possibly Ret. AIM The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of motesanib on wildtype and mutant Ret activity in vitro and on tumor xenograft growth in a mouse model of MTC. METHODS/RESULTS In cellular phosphorylation assays, motesanib inhibited the activity of wild-type Ret (IC(50)=66 nM), while it had limited activity against mutant Ret C634W (IC(50)=1100 nM) or Ret M918T (IC(50)>2500 nM). In vivo, motesanib significantly inhibited the growth of TT tumor cell xenografts (expressing Ret C634W) and significantly reduced tumor blood vessel area and tumor cell proliferation, compared with control. Treatment with motesanib resulted in substantial inhibition of Ret tyrosine phosphorylation in TT xenografts and, at comparable doses, in equivalent inhibition of VEGFR2 phosphorylation in both TT xenografts and in mouse lung tissue. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study demonstrate that motesanib inhibited thyroid tumor xenograft growth predominantly through inhibition of angiogenesis and possibly via a direct inhibition of VEGFR2 and Ret expressed on tumor cells. These data suggest that targeting angiogenesis pathways and specifically the VEGF pathway may represent a novel therapeutic approach in the treatment of MTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Coxon
- Department of Oncology Research, Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.
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Noullet S, Trésallet C, Godiris-Petit G, Hoang C, Leenhardt L, Menegaux F. Surgical management of sporadic medullary thyroid cancer. J Visc Surg 2011; 148:e244-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jviscsurg.2011.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Ma SH, Liu QJ, Zhang YC, Yang R. Alternative surgical strategies in patients with sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma: Long-term follow-up. Oncol Lett 2011; 2:975-980. [PMID: 22866159 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2011.344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Accepted: 06/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The extent of surgical resection in patients with sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma (SMTC) remains controversial. The aim of the present study was to discuss the prognosis of sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma with different surgical treatments. Of 73 patients with SMTC (mean age of 43.78 years at diagnosis), 70 patients were followed up for 12.0-169.0 months (median 90.0). Having given their informed consent, 12 patients underwent total thyroidectomy with bilateral central neck dissection (group A), 40 underwent subtotal thyroidectomy preserving contralateral thyroid tissue on the entrance point of the recurrent laryngeal nerve into the larynx with ipsilateral modified radical neck dissection (group B), and 18 patients underwent subtotal thyroidectomy preserving contralateral thyroid tissue on the entrance point of the recurrent laryngeal nerve into the larynx with bilateral modified radical neck dissection (group C). The diagnosis was confirmed by a pathology examination. The incidences of hypoparathyroidism and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, the cancer recurrence rates and survival time were investigated post-operatively. Significant differences were found between groups A, B and C in the incidence of hypoparathyroidism (χ(2)=40.9, P<0.01), as well as that of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (χ(2)=32.9, P<0.01). The cancer recurrence rates in groups A, B and C were 75.0% (9/12), 2.5% (1/40) and 44.4% (8/18) respectively, (χ(2)=31.1, P<0.01) and the cure rates were 25, 97.5 and 55.6% respectively (χ(2)=31.1, P<0.01). The mean survival times in groups A, B and C were 77.8, 106.1 and 111.0 months respectively, but significant difference was noted (χ(2)=3.2, P>0.05). In conclusion, compared to total thyroidectomy with bilateral central neck dissection, subtotal thyroidectomy with ipsilateral/bilateral modified radical neck dissection showed a lower incidence of hypoparathyroidism, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and lower rates of recurrence, along with a similar cumulative survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Hong Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730030, P.R. China
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Raval MV, Sturgeon C, Bentrem DJ, Elaraj DM, Stewart AK, Winchester DJ, Ko CY, Reynolds M. Influence of lymph node metastases on survival in pediatric medullary thyroid cancer. J Pediatr Surg 2010; 45:1947-54. [PMID: 20920711 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2010.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Revised: 06/07/2010] [Accepted: 06/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Lymph node metastases (LNM) from medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) are common in adults and are a poor prognostic factor. Less is known about LNM in children, who often have hereditary forms of MTC. Guidelines recommend prophylactic thyroidectomy in early childhood, but randomized prospective trials are not feasible. We hypothesized that LNM is associated with poor prognosis in children. METHODS Patients with MTC 21 years or younger from the National Cancer Data Base from 1985 to 2007 were studied. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with lymph node evaluation. Survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. RESULTS Of 430 patients, 276 (64.2%) had nodal evaluation with LNM present in 121 (28.1%). Older patients, those with tumors larger than 2 cm, and those with involved margins were more likely to have LNM (all P < .05). Patients undergoing total thyroidectomy, those with involved margins, and older patients were more likely to undergo lymph node evaluation after controlling for patient, tumor, and hospital factors (all P < .05). Over time an increasing number of patients with MTC have undergone total thyroidectomy. Patients 16 to 21 years of age had lower 10-year overall survival compared to patients 0 to 15 years old (88.7% vs 98.1%, P = .005). Lymph node metastases were also associated with decreased 10-year overall survival (84.4% vs 100%, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS In pediatric MTC, LNM predict poorer overall survival. Adequate lymph node assessment can provide valuable prognostic information for the pediatric MTC patient. Lymph node assessment should be considered for older pediatric patients undergoing surgery for hereditary MTC or biopsy confirmed MTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehul V Raval
- Division of Research and Optimal Patient Care, Cancer Programs, American College of Surgeons, Chicago, IL 60611-3211, USA.
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Abstract
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), accounts for approximately 5% to 10% of all thyroid cancers. Significant advances in the understanding of the biology and clinical outcomes of MTC have been made over the last decade, culminating most recently in the publication of treatment guidelines by the American Thyroid Association that follow an evidence-based approach that is summarized in this presentation. Prognosis, genetic testing, surgical technique, and re-operation are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan P B Dackiw
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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Abstract
Antisecretory factor (AF) is a protein secreted in plasma and other tissue fluids in mammals with proven antisecretory and anti-inflammatory activity; its immunohistological distribution suggests a role in the immune system. The expression level and the distribution of AF protein are altered during an immunological response. Exposure to bacterial toxins induces secretion of AF in plasma, probably reflecting a natural defence mechanism to agents causing diarrhoea, thereby contributing to a favourable clinical outcome and disease termination. An increase of AF levels in plasma by dietary means, such as specially processed cereals (SPC), has been demonstrated in human subjects and animals. Administration of SPC to patients affected by inflammatory bowel disease, gastroenteritis and Ménière's disease relieved symptoms and improved quality of life. A recent study showed the positive effect of SPC diet supplementation on prevention of the effects of exposure to low levels of blast overpressure in rats, reducing the extent of intracranial pressure increase and cognitive function impairment. AF-rich egg yolk powder improved health status in children suffering acute and chronic diarrhoea, reducing the frequency and increasing the consistency of stools. This kind of functional food could be used for prophylaxis in populations exposed to a high risk of morbidity and mortality caused by diarrhoea and as a complementary therapy in patients affected by chronic intestinal inflammatory disease to improve well-being. In pig husbandry AF-inducing diets, owing to their antisecretory activity and anti-inflammatory action, are a suitable option as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters to counteract post-weaning diarrhoea.
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Taïeb D, Giusiano S, Sebag F, Marcy M, de Micco C, Palazzo FF, Dusetti NJ, Iovanna JL, Henry JF, Garcia S, Taranger-Charpin C. Tumor protein p53-induced nuclear protein (TP53INP1) expression in medullary thyroid carcinoma: a molecular guide to the optimal extent of surgery? World J Surg 2010; 34:830-5. [PMID: 20145930 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-010-0395-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is characterized by early regional lymph node metastasis, the presence of which represents a critical obstacle to cure. At present no molecular markers have been successfully integrated into the clinical care of sporadic MTC. The present study was designed to evaluate TP53INP1 expression in MTC and to assess its ability to guide the surgeon to the optimal extent of surgery performed with curative intent. METHODS Thirty-eight patients with sporadic MTC were evaluated. TP53INP1 immunoexpression was studied on embedded paraffin material and on cytological smears. RESULTS TP53INP1 was expressed in normal C cells, in C-cell hyperplasia, and in 57.9% of MTC. It was possible to identify two groups of MTC according to the proportion of TP53INP1 expressing tumor cells: group 1 from 0% to <50% and group 2 from 50% to 100% of positive cells. Patients with a decreased expression of TP53INP1 (group 1) had a lower rate of nodal metastasis (18.8% versus 63.4% in group 2; P = 0.009), with only minimal lymph node involvement per N1 patient (2.7% of positive lymph nodes versus 22.9%; P < 0.001) and better outcomes (100% of biochemical cure versus 55.5%; P < 0.001). Patients with distant metastases were only observed in group 2. Cytological samples exhibit similar results to their embedded counterparts. CONCLUSIONS TP53INP1 immunoexpression appears to be a clinical predictor of lymph node metastasis in MTC. The evaluation of TP53INP1 expression may guide the extent of lymph node dissection in the clinically node-negative neck. These findings require prospective validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Taïeb
- INSERM U624 Stress Cellulaire, Parc Scientifique et Technologique de Luminy, Case 915, 13288, Marseille, France.
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Machens A, Dralle H. Biomarker-based risk stratification for previously untreated medullary thyroid cancer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2010; 95:2655-63. [PMID: 20339026 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-2368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Preoperative neck ultrasonography may yield false-negative findings in more than one-third of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) patients. If not cleared promptly, cervical lymph node metastases may emerge subsequently. Reoperations entail an excess risk of surgical morbidity and may be avoidable. OBJECTIVE This comprehensive investigation aimed to evaluate in a head-to-head comparison the clinical utility of pretherapeutic biomarker serum levels (basal calcitonin; stimulated calcitonin; carcinoembryonic antigen) for indicating extent of disease and providing biochemical stratification of pretherapeutic MTC risk. DESIGN This was a retrospective analysis. SETTING The setting was a tertiary referral center. PATIENTS Included were 300 consecutive patients with previously untreated MTC. INTERVENTIONS The intervention was compartment-oriented surgery. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Stratified biomarker levels were correlated with histopathologic extent of disease. RESULTS Higher biomarker levels reflected larger primary tumors and more lymph node metastases. Stratified basal calcitonin serum levels correlated better (r = 0.59) with the number of lymph node metastases than carcinoembryonic antigen (r = 0.47) or pentagastrin-stimulated calcitonin (r = 0.40) levels. Lymph node metastases were present in the ipsilateral central and lateral neck, contralateral central neck, contralateral lateral neck, and upper mediastinum, respectively, beyond basal calcitonin thresholds of 20, 50, 200, and 500 pg/ml. Bilateral compartment-oriented neck surgery achieved biochemical cure in at least half the patients with pretherapeutic basal calcitonin levels of 1,000 pg/ml or less but not in patients with levels greater than 10,000 pg/ml. CONCLUSIONS Most newly diagnosed MTC patients, i.e. those with pretherapeutic basal calcitonin levels greater than 200 pg/ml, may need bilateral compartment-oriented neck surgery to reduce the number of reoperations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Machens
- Department of General, Visceral, and Vascular Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Strasse 40, D-06097 Halle (Saale), Germany.
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Phase II study of plitidepsin 3-hour infusion every 2 weeks in patients with unresectable advanced medullary thyroid carcinoma. Am J Clin Oncol 2010; 33:83-8. [PMID: 19704366 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0b013e31819fdf5e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the antitumor response, time-to-event efficacy endpoints and toxicity of plitidepsin (Aplidin) 5 mg/m as a 3-hour intravenous (i.v.) infusion every 2 weeks in patients with unresectable advanced medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). METHODS Sixteen patients with MTC and disease progression or large tumor burden received plitidepsin. Tumor response and time-related parameters were evaluated according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. Secondary efficacy endpoints were marker response (calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen), clinical benefit and quality of life. Safety was assessed using the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria. RESULTS A total of 141 cycles (median, 9 per patient; range, 1-24) were administered. No complete responses or partial responses (PR) were found, and 12 patients had stable disease for >8 weeks. Median follow-up was 15.0 months. Median time to progression was 5.3 months. Median overall survival could not be calculated, but 86.7% and 66.0% of patients were alive at 6 and 12 months. Marker response included 1 unconfirmed PR and 2 stabilizations for calcitonin, and 1 unconfirmed PR and 4 stabilizations for calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen. One patient showed clinical benefit. Quality of life scores generally decreased during the study. Most treatment-related adverse events were mild or moderate. Grade 3 lymphopenia was the only severe hematological toxicity found (2 patients). Severe nonhematological toxicities were grade 3 creatine phosphokinase increase (2 patients, with no myalgia or muscular weakness) and transient grade 3 alanine aminotransferase increase (5 patients). CONCLUSIONS Single-agent plitidepsin given as 3-hour i.v. infusions every 2 weeks was generally well tolerated but showed limited clinical activity in patients with unresectable advanced MTC.
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Papi G, Rossi G, Corsello SM, Corrado S, Fadda G, Di Donato C, Pontecorvi A. Nodular disease and parafollicular C-cell distribution: results from a prospective and retrospective clinico-pathological study on the thyroid isthmus. Eur J Endocrinol 2010; 162:137-43. [PMID: 19793761 DOI: 10.1530/eje-09-0660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The isthmus represents a peculiar, as yet partially unexplored, thyroid gland area. AIM OF THE STUDY To assess i) the prevalence and clinico-pathological features of solitary thyroid isthmic nodules (STIN); ii) the frequency of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) arising from the isthmus; and iii) the C-cell distribution in the isthmus of patients with MTC and benign nodular thyroid disease (NTD). SUBJECTS AND METHODS Patients referred from 2006 to 2008 for STIN were prospectively recruited, and underwent serum calcitonin (C(t)) measurement and fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). MTCs diagnosed from 1993 to 2005 were retrospectively searched. Immunohistochemistry was performed using anti-C(t) antibodies on lateral lobes and isthmi of 50 benign NTD and 50 MTC cases. RESULTS From 1993 to 2005, 150 patients underwent surgery for MTC. All patients had the neoplasm located in lateral thyroid lobes, none in the isthmus. In the 3 years following, 192 STIN patients (40 (21%) males, 152 (79%) females; mean age: 46.2+/-7.1 years; 6.4% of NTD subjects) were recruited. All had normal C(t) concentrations. FNAC was malignant or suspicious for malignancy in 14 (7.3%) patients. Histology found malignancy in 17 (9%) cases, MTC in none. C cells were disclosed in lateral thyroid lobes of 100% MTC and 77% benign NTD patients; isthmi were free of C cells in either group. CONCLUSIONS STINs are significantly less likely to be MTC in patients presenting with sporadic disease. Therefore, C(t) screening is not warranted in these subjects. Nonetheless, STINs are more likely to be neoplastic and deserve equal attention as those of the lateral lobes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giampaolo Papi
- Chair of Endocrinology, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
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Schlumberger MJ, Elisei R, Bastholt L, Wirth LJ, Martins RG, Locati LD, Jarzab B, Pacini F, Daumerie C, Droz JP, Eschenberg MJ, Sun YN, Juan T, Stepan DE, Sherman SI. Phase II study of safety and efficacy of motesanib in patients with progressive or symptomatic, advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer. J Clin Oncol 2009; 27:3794-801. [PMID: 19564535 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2008.18.7815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This phase II study investigated the efficacy and tolerability of motesanib, an investigational, highly selective inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors 1, 2, and 3; platelet-derived growth factor receptor; and Kit in advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with locally advanced or metastatic, progressive or symptomatic MTC received motesanib 125 mg/d orally for up to 48 weeks or until unacceptable toxicity or disease progression. The primary end point was objective response by independent review. Other end points included duration of response, progression-free survival, safety, pharmacokinetics, and changes in tumor markers. RESULTS Of 91 enrolled patients who received motesanib, two (2%) achieved objective response (95% CI, 0.3% to 7.7%); their duration of response was 32 weeks (censored) and 21 weeks (disease progressed). Eighty-one percent of patients had stable disease (48% had durable stable disease > or = 24 weeks), 8% had disease progression as best response, and 9% were not evaluated; 76% experienced a decrease from baseline in target lesion measurement. Median progression-free survival was 48 weeks (95% CI, 43 to 56 weeks). Among patients with tumor marker analysis, 69 (83%) of 83 and 63 (75%) of 84 had decreased serum calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen during treatment, respectively, compared with baseline. The most common treatment-related adverse events were diarrhea (41%), fatigue (41%), hypothyroidism (29%), hypertension (27%), and anorexia (27%). In pharmacokinetic analyses, motesanib trough concentrations were lower compared with differentiated thyroid cancer patients from the same study. CONCLUSION Although the objective response rate was low, a significant proportion of MTC patients (81%) achieved stable disease while receiving motesanib.
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Allen SM, Bodenner D, Suen JY, Richter GT. Diagnostic and surgical dilemmas in hereditary medullary thyroid carcinoma. Laryngoscope 2009; 119:1303-11. [DOI: 10.1002/lary.20299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Bümming P, Ahlman H, Nilsson B, Nilsson O, Wängberg B, Jansson S. Can the early reduction of tumour markers predict outcome in surgically treated sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma? Langenbecks Arch Surg 2008; 393:699-703. [DOI: 10.1007/s00423-008-0375-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2008] [Accepted: 06/13/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Leggett MD, Chen SL, Schneider PD, Martinez SR. Prognostic value of lymph node yield and metastatic lymph node ratio in medullary thyroid carcinoma. Ann Surg Oncol 2008; 15:2493-9. [PMID: 18594930 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-008-0022-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2008] [Revised: 05/19/2008] [Accepted: 05/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lymphadenectomy and thyroidectomy is standard treatment for medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), but the prognostic importance of the number of lymph nodes removed (lymph node yield, LNY) and the proportion of metastatic lymph nodes resected (metastatic lymph node ratio, MLNR) is unknown. We hypothesized that MTC survival is influenced by LNY and MLNR. METHODS Patients (N = 534) who underwent thyroidectomy with lymphadenectomy for MTC between 1988 and 2004 were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for univariate comparisons of survival for LNY and MLNR with a maximum follow-up of 12 years. Cox regression models adjusted for age, sex, extent of disease, tumor size, nodal status, LNY, and MLNR. RESULTS By univariate analysis, increasing LNY was associated with improved survival in all patients (P < 0.002) and node-positive patients (P < 0.001). In a multivariate analysis using LNY and MLNR as categorical variables, significant factors influencing survival included: age (P < 0.001), tumor size (P < 0.001), LNY (P = 0.007), and MLNR (P < 0.02); in node-negative patients: age (P = 0.002); in node-positive patients: age (P < 0.001), tumor size (P < 0.001), and LNY (P = 0.001). Using LNY and MLNR as continuous variables, significant factors influencing survival included: age (P < 0.001), tumor size (P < 0.001), and MLNR (P = 0.01); in node-negative patients: age (P < 0.001); in node-positive patients: age (P < 0.001) and tumor size (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION In patients undergoing thyroidectomy and lymphadenectomy for MTC, LNY and MLNR predict poorer survival, but their impact on survival was limited to node-positive patients and was otherwise dominated by the effects of age and extent of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya D Leggett
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, UC Davis Cancer Center, University of California at Davis, 4501 X Street, Suite 3010, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
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Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is responsible for 13.4% of the total deaths attributable to thyroid cancer in human beings and research on MTC over the last 40 years has identified the RET proto-oncogene as a very relevant component of development of both sporadic and hereditary MTC. An activating germline RET proto-oncogene mutation responsible for a multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2) or a familial hereditary MTC syndrome is carried by 25% to 35% of patients with MTC. The recognition of RET proto-oncogene mutations by genetic sequencing has allowed us to differentiate hereditary from sporadic MTC, so that it is now possible to identify and treat children at risk for this disease before development of metastasis. Thanks to this discovery, we can now establish the association of MTC with other tumors in the context of MEN2 syndrome; determine adequate follow-up, prognosis, and treatment for patients with hereditary disease; and use this information to develop new therapies against both sporadic and hereditary MTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Jiménez
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Unit 435, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
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Machens A, Hauptmann S, Dralle H. Prediction of lateral lymph node metastases in medullary thyroid cancer. Br J Surg 2008; 95:586-91. [PMID: 18300267 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.6075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), there is a concordance between central and lateral neck involvement, but this relationship has not been assessed quantitatively. METHODS After compartment-oriented lymphadenectomy for untreated MTC, the numbers of central lymph node metastases with ipsilateral (195 patients) and contralateral (185 of 195 patients) lateral lymph node metastases were analysed retrospectively. RESULTS With one to three positive central lymph nodes, involvement of the ipsilateral lateral neck increased from 10.1 per cent (with no central node involvement) to 77 per cent, and from a mean of 0.6 to 3.7 nodal metastases (P < 0.001). With four or more central nodes, the rate was 98 per cent, with 10.7 nodal metastases (P = 0.001). A weaker increase was observed in the contralateral lateral neck: with one to nine positive central nodes, contralateral lateral neck involvement increased from 4.9 to 38 per cent, and from a mean of 0.6 to 2.3 nodal metastases (P = 0.011). With ten or more positive central nodes, the rate rose to 77 per cent, with 6.2 nodal metastases (P = 0.009). With one exception, contralateral lateral nodal metastases coexisted with metastases in the central and ipsilateral lateral neck. CONCLUSION These data may lay the groundwork for more informed decision-making regarding dissection of the lateral neck compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Machens
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany.
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Elisei R, Cosci B, Romei C, Bottici V, Renzini G, Molinaro E, Agate L, Vivaldi A, Faviana P, Basolo F, Miccoli P, Berti P, Pacini F, Pinchera A. Prognostic significance of somatic RET oncogene mutations in sporadic medullary thyroid cancer: a 10-year follow-up study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2008; 93:682-7. [PMID: 18073307 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2007-1714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 325] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a well-differentiated thyroid tumor that maintains the typical features of C cells. An advanced stage and the presence of lymph node metastases at diagnosis have been demonstrated to be the most important bad prognostic factors. Somatic RET mutations have been found in 40-50% of MTCs. Although a relationship between somatic mutations and bad prognosis has been described, data are controversial and have been performed in small series with short-term follow ups. The aim of this study was to verify the prognostic value of somatic RET mutations in a large series of MTCs with a long follow up. METHODS We studied 100 sporadic MTC patients with a 10.2 yr mean follow-up. RET gene exons 10-11 and 13-16 were analyzed. The correlation between the presence/absence of a somatic RET mutation, clinical/pathological features, and outcome of MTC patients was evaluated. RESULTS A somatic RET mutation was found in 43 of 100 (43%) sporadic MTCs. The most frequent mutation (34 of 43, 79%) was M918T. RET mutation occurrence was more frequent in larger tumors (P=0.03), and in MTC with node and distant metastases (P<0.0001 and P=0.02, respectively), thus, a significant correlation was found with a more advanced stage at diagnosis (P=0.004). A worse outcome was also significantly correlated with the presence of a somatic RET mutation (P=0.002). Among all prognostic factors found to be correlated with a worse outcome, at multivariate analysis only the advanced stage at diagnosis and the presence of a RET mutation showed an independent correlation (P<0.0001 and P=0.01, respectively). Finally, the survival curves of MTC patients showed a significantly lower percentage of surviving patients in the group with RET mutations (P=0.006). CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that the presence of a somatic RET mutation correlates with a worse outcome of MTC patients, not only for the highest probability to have persistence of the disease, but also for a lower survival rate in a long-term follow up. More interestingly, the presence of a somatic RET mutation correlates with the presence of lymph node metastases at diagnosis, which is a known bad prognostic factor for the definitive cure of MTC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Elisei
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Pisa, Via Paradisa 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy.
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Machens A, Hauptmann S, Dralle H. Increased risk of lymph node metastasis in multifocal hereditary and sporadic medullary thyroid cancer. World J Surg 2007; 31:1960-5. [PMID: 17665245 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-007-9185-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In sporadic and hereditary medullary thyroid cancer, tumor multifocality may constitute an independent risk factor of lymph node metastasis on top of primary tumor size when the diameter of the largest primary tumor is the same. METHODS Included in this institutional cohort study were 232 consecutive patients operated on at our institution for hitherto untreated medullary thyroid cancer. Associations of clinicopathologic variables with lymph node metastasis were investigated simultaneously using multivariate Cox regression analysis. RESULTS On univariate analysis, multifocal cancers developed lymph node metastases significantly more often (p < or = 0.005) than unifocal cancers, in both the sporadic (90% vs. 41%) and the hereditary setting (48% vs. 14%). On multivariate Cox regression analysis on lymph node metastasis as a function of primary tumor diameter, only multifocal (vs. unifocal) tumor growth was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis (odds ratio [OR] = 2.5; p = 0.01). When multifocal growth was removed as an independent variable from the Cox model, heredity became the only significant predictor (OR = 3.1; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION The excess risk of lymph node metastasis of 34%-49% in multifocal medullary thyroid cancer seems to be caused by concurrent smaller thyroid cancers. A diagnosis of more than one medullary thyroid cancer signifies a higher risk of lymph node metastasis, warranting systematic lymph node dissection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Machens
- Department of General, Visceral and Vascular Surgery, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Ernst-Grube-Str 40, D-06097, Halle/Saale, Germany.
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Long-term clinical and biochemical follow-up in medullary thyroid carcinoma: a single institution's experience over 20 years. Ann Surg 2007; 246:815-21. [PMID: 17968174 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0b013e31813e66b9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many patients with medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTC) have reoperative surgery in different hospitals, which makes their follow-up difficult. To comprehend these complex courses and to find relevant prognostic factors we report a 20-year single center experience of 289 patients with MTC or precursor C-cell-hyperplasias. PATIENTS AND METHODS Between April 1986 and May 2006, 289 consecutive patients with MTC or MEN2 gene carriers were treated at the Department of Surgery at the University Hospital Düsseldorf. Tumor stages were documented according to the classification of the International Union against Cancer 5th edition, 1997 (Schott. Endocr Relat Cancer. 2006;13:779-795). A system to easily comprehend operative procedures is suggested. RESULTS There were 159 female and 130 male patients (f/m ratio 1.22). Mean age at time of diagnosis was 32 years (4-77) in the familial cases and 53 years (23-84) years in the sporadic cases. Sixty-six patients (23%) had multifocal disease. Twelve MEN2-patients had only C-cell-hyperplasia (pT0). Tumor stage was pT1 in 86 patients, pT2 in 106 patients, pT3 in 25 patients, pT4 in 52 patients and unclear in 8 patients. In the 289 patients 648 operations were performed. One hundred seventy patients had more than 1 operation (59%). Ninety-nine patients (34%) are calcitonin-negative and 91 patients (31%) live with elevated calcitonin. Median follow-up time of the surviving 211 patients was 8.9 years (range, 0.3-30.7 years). The 5- and 10-year survival of all tumor patients was 86% and 68%, respectively. CONCLUSION The chance to achieve biochemical cure in MTC is clearly dependent on the primary tumor size. The chance for long-term biochemical cure in a pT4-tumor is almost nil even after multiple and extended reoperations, whereas a pT1 tumor can be cured in up to 67% of the patients. Long-term survival, however, can be achieved even in pT4 tumor patients in almost 50%.
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de Groot JWB, Links TP, Sluiter WJ, Wolffenbuttel BHR, Wiggers T, Plukker JTM. Locoregional control in patients with palpable medullary thyroid cancer: results of standardized compartment-oriented surgery. Head Neck 2007; 29:857-63. [PMID: 17427969 DOI: 10.1002/hed.20609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extent of neck dissection is controversial in patients with palpable medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). METHODS We evaluated 64 MTC patients (19 hereditary, 45 sporadic) with palpable thyroid nodules (group 1, n = 35) or palpable lymph node metastases (group 2, n = 29). Standard surgery included total thyroidectomy, central compartment dissection, and additional neck dissection on indication. RESULTS In group 1, 40% of the patients were cured. Thirty-one percent of all patients had central, 23% ipsilateral, 14% contralateral, and 14% mediastinal, metastases. Fifty-one percent developed locoregional recurrence. Locoregional recurrence (p = .043) and reoperations (p = .020) were noted more often after a less than standard initial procedure. In group 2, no patients were cured. All had central, 93% ipsilateral, 45% contralateral, and 52% mediastinal metastases. Thirty-eight percent developed locoregional recurrence. CONCLUSIONS Locoregional recurrence frequently occurs in palpable MTC, and tumor control may be improved by standard central, bilateral, and upper mediastinal neck dissection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Willem B de Groot
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
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Oudoux A, Salaun PY, Bournaud C, Campion L, Ansquer C, Rousseau C, Bardet S, Borson-Chazot F, Vuillez JP, Murat A, Mirallié E, Barbet J, Goldenberg DM, Chatal JF, Kraeber-Bodéré F. Sensitivity and prognostic value of positron emission tomography with F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose and sensitivity of immunoscintigraphy in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma treated with anticarcinoembryonic antigen-targeted radioimmunotherapy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2007; 92:4590-7. [PMID: 17878252 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2007-0938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Patients with progressive medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) undergo multiple imaging procedures for diagnosis of relapse and staging. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to assess the sensitivity and prognostic value of 18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT), and the imaging sensitivity of pretargeted iodine-131-radioimmunotherapy (RIT) in patients with progressive MTC. DESIGN/SETTING/PATIENTS We performed a prospective multicenter study in high-risk patients with rapidly progressing MTC enrolled in a phase-II pretargeted RIT study, as documented by short serum calcitonin (Ct) or carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) doubling time (DT). INTERVENTIONS/MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Patients underwent neck-thoracic-abdominal CT, spine and pelvic magnetic resonance imaging, whole-body post-RIT immunoscintigraphy (IS) with iodine-131, and whole-body 18F-FDG-PET/CT imaging. Imaging sensitivity and the correlation between FDG uptake and biomarkers DT were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 33 patients with mean CEA and Ct DTs of 1.90 yr (range 0.21-8.50) and 1.52 yr (range 0.09-6.01), respectively, were evaluated. Sensitivity of FDG-PET/CT was 83% for neck, 85% for mediastinal, 75% for lung, 60% for liver, and 67% for bone metastases; overall sensitivity was 76%. Median standardized uptake value (SUVmax) was 5.23 (2.06-13.90). SUVmax correlated significantly with Ct DT (P = 0.011) and minimal DT (minimal value between CEA DT and Ct DT) (P = 0.027). Overall sensitivity of post-RIT IS, CT, and bone magnetic resonance imaging were 94, 74, and 85%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate the value of FDG-PET/CT for staging of patients with progressive MTC, especially in the neck and mediastinum, with possible prognostication by SUV quantification. Post-RIT IS was the most sensitive of the imaging modalities studied prospectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Oudoux
- Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital, 44093 Nantes, France
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Wray CJ, Rich TA, Waguespack SG, Lee JE, Perrier ND, Evans DB. Failure to recognize multiple endocrine neoplasia 2B: more common than we think? Ann Surg Oncol 2007; 15:293-301. [PMID: 17963006 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-007-9665-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2007] [Revised: 09/20/2007] [Accepted: 09/25/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple endocrine neoplasia 2B (MEN2B) has a classic childhood phenotypic presentation characterized by mucosal neuromas and marfanoid habitus. However, the diagnosis of MEN2B is often delayed beyond childhood, at which time medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) may be regionally advanced or metastatic. We examined the extent of this delay and its impact on the treatment of MTC. METHODS Patients in the MEN database were retrospectively analyzed to determine the age at first presentation for a MEN2B-related complaint and the subsequent time to correct diagnosis. Operative and pathology reports were reviewed to determine the extent of thyroidectomy and cervical lymphadenectomy during the initial and subsequent neck operations. RESULTS We identified 22 patients with MEN2B, 20 were de novo cases and a M918T RET gene mutation was confirmed in 18 of the 22 patients. Median age at diagnosis of MTC was 13 years (range 6-25 years). The median delay in diagnosis was 26 months (range 0-18 years). Persistent local-regional MTC was present following the initial cervical operation in 12 of 22 patients (55%); including 4 of 13 with MEN2B diagnosed prior to initial surgery and 8 of 9 with MEN2B diagnosed after initial surgery. CONCLUSIONS Most patients displayed phenotypic characteristics of MEN2B long before the correct diagnosis was made. Half of the patients failed to undergo complete resection of MTC at their initial thyroid surgery. Early recognition of the MEN2B phenotype with a thoughtful approach to preoperative staging and surgery will maximize control of MTC and minimize the need for reoperation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Curtis J Wray
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Moley JF, Fialkowski EA. Evidence-based approach to the management of sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma. World J Surg 2007; 31:946-56. [PMID: 17426901 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-006-0846-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare malignancy of the thyroid C cells. It occurs in hereditary (25% of cases) and sporadic (75%) forms. Sporadic MTCs frequently metastasize to cervical lymph nodes. Thorough surgical extirpation of the primary tumor and nodal metastases by compartment-oriented resection has been the mainstay of treatment (level IV evidence). Surgical resection of residual and recurrent disease is effective in reducing calcitonin levels and controlling complications of central neck disease (level IV evidence). Radioactive iodine, external beam radiation therapy, and conventional chemotherapy have not been effective. Newer systemic treatments, with agents that target abnormal RET proteins hold promise and are being tested in clinical trials for patients with metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey F Moley
- Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Abstract
This article summarizes the clinical features and molecular pathogenesis of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and focuses on the current use of molecular, biochemical, and imaging disease markers as a basis for selection of appropriate therapy. Clinicians treating patients who have MTC face the following challenges: (1) distinguishing MTC as early as possible from benign nodular disease and differentiated thyroid cancer to choose the appropriate initial surgery, (2) managing low-level residual cancer in otherwise asymptomatic individuals, and (3) treating progressive metastatic disease. Early clinical trials using small molecules targeting Ret or vascular endothelial growth factor receptors suggest that such approaches could be effective and well tolerated. This article highlights early progress in targeted therapy of MTC and significant challenges in disease monitoring to appropriately select and evaluate patients being treated with these therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas W Ball
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Suite 333, 1830 East Monument Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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Greenblatt DY, Elson D, Mack E, Chen H. Initial Lymph Node Dissection Increases Cure Rates in Patients with Medullary Thyroid Cancer. Asian J Surg 2007; 30:108-12. [PMID: 17475579 DOI: 10.1016/s1015-9584(09)60141-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is the third most common type of thyroid cancer. MTC spreads early to local lymph nodes, and most endocrine surgeons recommend total thyroidectomy with central lymph node dissection (CLND) as the minimum initial operation. We reviewed our experience to determine if the initial operation influences clinical outcomes. METHODS Twenty-two patients with sporadic or inherited MTC who received surgery at one academic centre between 1994 and 2004 were identified. Clinical, operative, and pathology findings were reviewed. RESULTS Ten patients had prophylactic thyroidectomy for hereditary MTC, while 12 patients underwent therapeutic operations for sporadic MTC. The average age of the prophylactic group was 11 +/- 3, and 43 +/- 6 years for the therapeutic group. All patients in the prophylactic group received thyroidectomy without neck dissection. No patient in the prophylactic group had residual disease or required re-operation. In the therapeutic surgery group, three patients were treated with thyroidectomy plus CLND, and nine patients received thyroidectomy alone. The CLND group had a significantly higher cure rate as demonstrated by a lower incidence of residual disease (0% vs. 89%, p = 0.018), and re-operations (0% vs. 78%, p = 0.045). CONCLUSION Initial CLND for MTC increases cure rates by reducing residual disease and re-operations.
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Abstract
In general, primary surgery of thyroid carcinoma should consist of total thyroidectomy and lymph node dissection of the cervicocentral compartment. Exceptions are cases of papillary microcarcinoma and prophylactic surgery due to multiple type 2A endocrine neoplasia. Lymph node dissection beyond the cervicocentral compartment also should be compartment-oriented. It is generally indicated if lymph node metastases have been proven. Concerning clinically proven medullary thyroid carcinoma, bilateral cervicolateral lymph node dissection is generally indicated, since lymph node metastases may be missed preoperatively but are often found histologically. In patients with parathyroid carcinoma, en bloc ipsilateral cervicocentral lymph node dissection should be performed in addition to parathyroidectomy and hemithyroidectomy. Lymph node dissection should always be performed systematically, since lymph node metastases may be missed both clinically and by imaging techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Gimm
- Universitäts- und Poliklinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Gefässchirurgie, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Halle/Saale
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