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Gigliotti BJ, Brooks JA, Wirth LJ. Fundamentals and recent advances in the evaluation and management of medullary thyroid carcinoma. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 592:112295. [PMID: 38871174 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare primary neuroendocrine thyroid carcinoma that is distinct from other thyroid or neuroendocrine cancers. Most cases of MTC are sporadic, although MTC exhibits a high degree of heritability as part of the multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes. REarranged during Transfection (RET) mutations are the primary oncogenic drivers and advances in molecular profiling have revealed that MTC is enriched in druggable alterations. Surgery at an early stage is the only chance for cure, but many patients present with or develop metastases. C-cell-specific calcitonin trajectory and structural doubling times are critical biomarkers to inform prognosis, extent of surgery, likelihood of residual disease, and need for additional therapy. Recent advances in the role of active surveillance, regionally directed therapies for localized disease, and systemic therapy with multi-kinase and RET-specific inhibitors for progressive/metastatic disease have significantly improved outcomes for patients with MTC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer A Brooks
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Lori J Wirth
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Cohen O, Tzelnick S, Randolph G, Rinaldo A, Álvarez F, Rodrigo JP, Saba NF, Nuyts S, Corry J, Mäkitie AA, Vander Poorten V, Nathan CA, Piazza C, Ferlito A. Initial surgical management of sporadic medullary thyroid cancer: Guidelines based optimal care - A systematic review. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2024; 100:468-476. [PMID: 38472743 DOI: 10.1111/cen.15041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor from parafollicular cells that produce calcitonin (Ct). Despite several existing guidelines for the surgical management of sporadic MTC (sMTC), optimal initial surgical management of the thyroid, the central and the lateral neck remains a matter of debate. METHODS A systematic review in PubMed and Scopus for current guidelines addressing the surgical management of sMTC and its referenced citations was conducted as per the PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Two-hundred and one articles were identified, of which 7 met the inclusion criteria. Overall, guidelines vary significantly in their recommendations for the surgical management of sMTC. Only one guideline recommended partial thyroidectomy for limited disease, but the possibility to avoid completion thyroidectomy in selected cases is acknowledged in 42% (3/7) of the remaining guidelines. The majority of guidelines (71.4%; 5/7) recommended prophylactic central neck dissection (CND) for all patients while the remaining two guidelines recommended CND based on Ct level and tumor size. The role of prophylactic lateral neck dissection based on preoperative Ct levels was recommended by 42% (3/7) of guidelines. Overall, these guidelines are based on low-quality evidence, mostly single-center retrospective series, some of which are over 20 years old. CONCLUSION Current surgical management guidelines of sMTC should be revised, and ought to be based on updated data challenging current recommendations, which are based on historic, low-quality evidence. Partial thyroidectomy may become a viable option for small, limited tumors. Prospective, multi-center studies may be useful to conclude whether prophylactic ND is necessary in all sMTC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oded Cohen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva, Israel
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Samson Assuta Ashdod University Hospital, Ashdod, Israel
| | - Sharon Tzelnick
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gregory Randolph
- Division of Otolaryngology-Endocrine Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Fernando Álvarez
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hospital Universitario Central Asturias, Central de Asturias, University of Oviedo, ISPA, IUOPA, CIBERONC, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - Juan P Rodrigo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Hospital Universitario Central Asturias, Central de Asturias, University of Oviedo, ISPA, IUOPA, CIBERONC, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - Nabil F Saba
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sandra Nuyts
- Laboratory of Experimental Radiotherapy, Department of Oncology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Leuven Cancer Institute, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - June Corry
- Department Radiation Oncology, GenesisCare St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Antti A Mäkitie
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Research Program in Systems Oncology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vincent Vander Poorten
- Section Head and Neck Oncology, Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and Department of Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Cherie-Ann Nathan
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Louisiana State University-Health Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana, USA
| | - Cesare Piazza
- Department of Surgical and Medical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Unit of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alfio Ferlito
- Coordinator of the International Head and Neck Scientific Group, Padua, Italy
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Devgan Y, Mayilvaganan S. Letter to the Editor From Devgan and Mayilvaganan: "Natural History and Predictive Factors of Outcome in Medullary Thyroid Microcarcinoma". J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 109:e433. [PMID: 37378844 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuvraj Devgan
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226 014, India
| | - Sabaretnam Mayilvaganan
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow 226 014, India
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Wu X, Li B, Zheng C. Clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of medullary thyroid microcarcinoma: a tumor with a similar prognosis to macrocarcinoma. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:546. [PMID: 38017592 PMCID: PMC10683302 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01534-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor size plays an important role in the staging and treatment of thyroid carcinoma. A tumor with a maximum diameter of 1 cm or less is referred to as microcarcinoma. It is unclear if the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of medullary thyroid microcarcinoma (≤ 1 cm; MTMC) and macrocarcinoma (> 1 cm) differ. The present study aims to clarify the clinical features and prognosis of patients with MTMC. METHODS The patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma underwent radical operation at our hospital between December 2000 and January 2022 were retrospectively studied. A database was established for this study. Patients with MTMC and macrocarcinoma were grouped for comparison. The clinicopathological characteristics of the two groups were compared by χ2 test, Fisher's exact test, t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test. Cumulative survival rates were presented by the Kaplan-Meier curves and compared using the log-rank test. RESULTS A total of 198 patients were included. Of them, 56 and 142 with MTMC and macrocarcinoma, respectively. Few patients in the MTMC group had lateral lymph node metastasis. One hundred and seventy-eight (89.9%) patients were followed up, with a median follow-up period of 61 (35, 105) months. The disease-free survival rate was significantly higher in the MTMC group (log-rank test, p = 0.032); however, there was no significant difference in the overall survival rate between the two groups (log-rank test, p = 0.083). CONCLUSIONS Patients with MTMC have a lower risk of lateral lymph node metastasis and better disease-free survival than those with macrocarcinoma. However, there was no significant difference in the overall survival rate of both groups. MTMC should be treated in the same manner as macrocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Binglu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Chaoji Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
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Kesby N, Mechera R, Fuchs T, Papachristos A, Gild M, Tsang V, Clifton-Bligh R, Robinson B, Sywak M, Sidhu S, Chou A, Gill AJ, Glover A. Natural History and Predictive Factors of Outcome in Medullary Thyroid Microcarcinoma. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:2626-2634. [PMID: 36964913 PMCID: PMC10505538 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Management of sporadic medullary thyroid microcarcinoma smaller than 1 cm (micro-MTC) is controversial because of conflicting reports of prognosis. As these cancers are often diagnosed incidentally, they pose a management challenge when deciding on further treatment and follow-up. OBJECTIVE We report the outcomes of surgically managed sporadic micro-MTC in a specialist endocrine surgery and endocrinology unit and identify associations for recurrence and disease-specific survival in this population. METHODS Micro-MTCs were identified from a prospectively maintained surgery database, and slides were reviewed to determine pathological grade. The primary end points were recurrence, time to recurrence and disease-specific survival. Prognostic factors assessed included size, grade, lymph node metastasis (LNM), and postoperative calcitonin. RESULTS From 1995 to 2022, 64 patients were diagnosed with micro-MTC with 22 excluded because of hereditary disease. The included patients had a median age of 60 years, tumor size of 4 mm, and 28 (67%) were female. The diagnosis was incidental in 36 (86%) with 4 (10%) being high grade, 5 (12%) having LNM and 9 (21%) having elevated postoperative calcitonin. Over a 6.6-year median follow-up, 5 (12%) developed recurrence and 3 (7%) died of MTC. High grade and LNM were associated with 10-year survival estimates of 75% vs 100% for low grade and no LNM (hazard ratio = 831; P < .01). High grade, LNM, and increased calcitonin were associated with recurrence (P < .01). Tumor size and type of surgery were not statistically significantly associated with recurrence or survival. No patients with low grade micro-MTC and normal postoperative calcitonin developed recurrence. CONCLUSION Most sporadic micro-MTCs are detected incidentally and are generally associated with good outcomes. Size is not significantly associated with outcomes. Using grade, LNM, and postoperative calcitonin allows for the identification of patients at risk of recurrence to personalize management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Kesby
- Endocrine Surgery Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Robert Mechera
- Endocrine Surgery Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- Clarunis, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Basel-Stadt 4031, Switzerland
| | - Talia Fuchs
- NSW Health Pathology, Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Alexander Papachristos
- Endocrine Surgery Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Matti Gild
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Venessa Tsang
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Roderick Clifton-Bligh
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Bruce Robinson
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Mark Sywak
- Endocrine Surgery Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Stan Sidhu
- Endocrine Surgery Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Angela Chou
- NSW Health Pathology, Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Anthony J Gill
- NSW Health Pathology, Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Anthony Glover
- Endocrine Surgery Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
- The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- Northern Clinical School, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
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Jung CK, Agarwal S, Hang JF, Lim DJ, Bychkov A, Mete O. Update on C-Cell Neuroendocrine Neoplasm: Prognostic and Predictive Histopathologic and Molecular Features of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma. Endocr Pathol 2023; 34:1-22. [PMID: 36890425 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-023-09753-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a C-cell-derived epithelial neuroendocrine neoplasm. With the exception of rare examples, most are well-differentiated epithelial neuroendocrine neoplasms (also known as neuroendocrine tumors in the taxonomy of the International Agency for Research on Cancer [IARC] of the World Health Organization [WHO]). This review provides an overview and recent evidence-based data on the molecular genetics, disease risk stratification based on clinicopathologic variables including molecular profiling and histopathologic variables, and targeted molecular therapies in patients with advanced MTC. While MTC is not the only neuroendocrine neoplasm in the thyroid gland, other neuroendocrine neoplasms in the thyroid include intrathyroidal thymic neuroendocrine neoplasms, intrathyroidal parathyroid neoplasms, and primary thyroid paragangliomas as well as metastatic neuroendocrine neoplasms. Therefore, the first responsibility of a pathologist is to distinguish MTC from other mimics using appropriate biomarkers. The second responsibility includes meticulous assessment of the status of angioinvasion (defined as tumor cells invading through a vessel wall and forming tumor-fibrin complexes, or intravascular tumor cells admixed with fibrin/thrombus), tumor necrosis, proliferative rate (mitotic count and Ki67 labeling index), and tumor grade (low- or high-grade) along with the tumor stage and the resection margins. Given the morphologic and proliferative heterogeneity in these neoplasms, an exhaustive sampling is strongly recommended. Routine molecular testing for pathogenic germline RET variants is typically performed in all patients with a diagnosis of MTC; however, multifocal C-cell hyperplasia in association with at least a single focus of MTC and/or multifocal C-cell neoplasia are morphological harbingers of germline RET alterations. It is of interest to assess the status of pathogenic molecular alterations involving genes other than RET like the MET variants in MTC families with no pathogenic germline RET variants. Furthermore, the status of somatic RET alterations should be determined in all advanced/progressive or metastatic diseases, especially when selective RET inhibitor therapy (e.g., selpercatinib or pralsetinib) is considered. While the role of routine SSTR2/5 immunohistochemistry remains to be further clarified, evidence suggests that patients with somatostatin receptor (SSTR)-avid metastatic disease may also benefit from the option of 177Lu-DOTATATE peptide radionuclide receptor therapy. Finally, the authors of this review make a call to support the nomenclature change of MTC to C-cell neuroendocrine neoplasm to align this entity with the IARC/WHO taxonomy since MTCs represent epithelial neuroendocrine neoplasms of endoderm-derived C-cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Kwon Jung
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea.
- Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea.
| | - Shipra Agarwal
- Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Jen-Fan Hang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medicine and Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Dong-Jun Lim
- Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Andrey Bychkov
- Department of Pathology, Kameda Medical Center, Kamogawa, Chiba, 296-8602, Japan
| | - Ozgur Mete
- Department of Pathology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
- Endocrine Oncology Site, Princess Margaret Cancer, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
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Trimboli P, Camponovo C, Ruinelli L. The dilemma of routine testing for calcitonin thyroid nodule's patients to detect or exclude medullary carcinoma: one single negative test should be valuable as rule-out strategy to avoid further calcitonin measurements over time. Endocrine 2022; 77:80-85. [PMID: 35391593 PMCID: PMC9242962 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03047-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE While calcitonin (CT) measurement is recognized as the most accurate tool to diagnose medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), its routine use in patients with thyroid nodule (TN) is not universally accepted. The present study raised the question whether a TN patient with an initial normal CT can have suspicious CT levels (i.e., at least >20 pg/ml) later during his follow-up. METHODS The historical database of our institution was searched to select TN patients undergone multiple CT tests, having an initial normal CT, and clinically followed up for years. The event of a CT above 20 pg/ml (mild-to-moderate suspicion) and 100 pg/ml (high suspicion) was searched in the follow-up of the included patients. RESULTS According to the study design, the study sample encompassed 170 patients (131 female, 39 male) with initial CT value ≤10 pg/ml. On the first CT test, patients were 54.8 years and median CT was 2.1 pg/ml in both females and males. Over a period of 14.5 years and a median clinical follow-up of patients of 53.0 (23.9-102.5) months, MTC could be excluded by histology or cytology in 109 (64%) and clinically in the remaining ones. On the follow-up over time, no patients had CT >20 pg/ml and only two cases had CT just above 10 pg/ml. CONCLUSION According to the present results, one single CT testing with normal value could be reasonably used as a rule-out strategy in patients with TN to avoid further CT measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Trimboli
- Servizio di Endocrinologia e Diabetologia, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), 6900, Lugano, Switzerland.
- Facoltà di Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI), 6900, Lugano, Switzerland.
| | - Chiara Camponovo
- Servizio di Endocrinologia e Diabetologia, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), 6900, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Lorenzo Ruinelli
- Team Data Science & Research, Area ICT, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, 6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland
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Abstract
This paper will review neuroendocrine lesions of the thyroid and the differential diagnosis with the most significant such tumor of the thyroid, that is, medullary thyroid carcinoma. A brief overview of the understanding of this tumor's identification as a lesion of C cells and its familial and syndromic associations will be presented. Then, a discussion of the various mimics of medullary carcinoma will be given with an approach to the types of tests that can be done to arrive at a correct diagnostic conclusion. This review will focus on practical "tips" for the practicing pathologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia A Livolsi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelmann School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.
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9
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Clinicopathological Significance and Prognosis of Medullary Thyroid Microcarcinoma: A Meta-analysis. World J Surg 2017; 41:2551-2558. [DOI: 10.1007/s00268-017-4031-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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10
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Konstantinidis A, Stang M, Roman SA, Sosa JA. Surgical management of medullary thyroid carcinoma. Updates Surg 2017; 69:151-160. [DOI: 10.1007/s13304-017-0443-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Choudhary C, Scharpf J, Nasr C. Sporadic Micromedullary Thyroid Carcinoma With Bone Metastases At Diagnosis: A Case Report And Review Of The Literature. AACE Clin Case Rep 2017. [DOI: 10.4158/ep151193.cr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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12
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Abstract
Hereditary medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) represents up to one-third of MTC cases and includes multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2A (and its variant familial MTC) and 2B. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the disease focusing on the management of hereditary MTC patients, who have already developed tumor, as well as discuss the recommended approach for asymptomatic family members carrying the same mutation. A PubMed search was performed to review recent literature on diagnosis, genetic testing, and surgical and medical management of hereditary MTC. The wide use of genetic testing for RET mutations has markedly influenced the course of hereditary MTC. Prophylactic thyroidectomy of RET carriers at an early age eliminates the risk of developing MTC later in life. Pre-operative staging is a strong prognostic factor in patients, who have developed MTC. The use of recently approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors (vandetanib, cabozantinib) holds promising results for the treatment of unresectable, locally advanced, and progressive metastatic MTC. Genetic testing of the RET gene is a powerful tool in the diagnosis and prognosis of MTC. Ongoing research is expected to add novel treatment options for patients with advanced, progressive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Pappa
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80 Vassilissis Sofias Avenue, 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80 Vassilissis Sofias Avenue, 11528, Athens, Greece.
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Chandeze MM, Noullet S, Faron M, Trésallet C, Godiris-Petit G, Tissier F, Buffet C, Leenhardt L, Chereau N, Menegaux F. Can We Predict the Lateral Compartment Lymph Node Involvement in RET-Negative Patients with Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma? Ann Surg Oncol 2016; 23:3653-3659. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-016-5292-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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14
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Mazeh H, Orlev A, Mizrahi I, Gross DJ, Freund HR. Concurrent Medullary, Papillary, and Follicular Thyroid Carcinomas and Simultaneous Cushing's Syndrome. Eur Thyroid J 2015; 4:65-8. [PMID: 25960965 PMCID: PMC4404927 DOI: 10.1159/000368750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Revised: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common thyroid cancer (85%). Follicular thyroid carcinoma is the second most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for up to 10% of all thyroid cancers. Medullary thyroid carcinoma accounts for only 5-8% of thyroid cancers. Concurrent medullary, follicular, and papillary carcinomas of the thyroid gland are extremely rare and reported scarcely. CASE REPORT A 72-year-old male presented with nonspecific neck pain. The workup revealed a nodular thyroid gland with a follicular lesion on fine-needle aspiration. Total thyroidectomy was performed and pathological examination identified a 25-mm follicular carcinoma, two papillary microcarcinomas, and two medullary microcarcinomas. The genetic workup was negative and no other family members were diagnosed with any endocrinopathy. Two months after surgery, the patient was diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome that was treated with laparoscopic left adrenalectomy. On 3-year follow-up, the patient is asymptomatic with no evidence of recurrent disease. CONCLUSION We present a rare case of a patient with follicular, papillary, and medullary thyroid carcinoma, and Cushing's syndrome. To date, no known genetic mutation or syndrome can account for this combination of neoplastic thyroid and adrenal pathologies, although future research may prove differently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haggi Mazeh
- Department of SurgeryEndocrinology and Metabolism Service Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- *Haggi Mazeh, MD, Department of Surgery, Hadassah University Hospital Mount Scopus, PO Box 24035, Jerusalem 91240 (Israel), E-Mail
| | - Amir Orlev
- Department of SurgeryEndocrinology and Metabolism Service Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ido Mizrahi
- Department of SurgeryEndocrinology and Metabolism Service Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - David J. Gross
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Service Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Herbert R. Freund
- Department of SurgeryEndocrinology and Metabolism Service Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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Maia AL, Siqueira DR, Kulcsar MAV, Tincani AJ, Mazeto GMFS, Maciel LMZ. Diagnóstico, tratamento e seguimento do carcinoma medular de tireoide: recomendações do Departamento de Tireoide da Sociedade Brasileira de Endocrinologia e Metabologia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 58:667-700. [DOI: 10.1590/0004-2730000003427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Introdução O carcinoma medular de tireoide (CMT) origina-se das células parafoliculares da tireoide e corresponde a 3-4% das neoplasias malignas da glândula. Aproximadamente 25% dos casos de CMT são hereditários e decorrentes de mutações ativadoras no proto-oncogene RET (REarranged during Transfection). O CMT é uma neoplasia de curso indolente, com taxas de sobrevida dependentes do estádio tumoral ao diagnóstico. Este artigo descreve diretrizes baseadas em evidências clínicas para o diagnóstico, tratamento e seguimento do CMT. Objetivo O presente consenso, elaborado por especialistas brasileiros e patrocinado pelo Departamento de Tireoide da Sociedade Brasileira de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, visa abordar o diagnóstico, tratamento e seguimento dos pacientes com CMT, de acordo com as evidências mais recentes da literatura. Materiais e métodos: Após estruturação das questões clínicas, foi realizada busca das evidências disponíveis na literatura, inicialmente na base de dados do MedLine-PubMed e posteriormente nas bases Embase e SciELO – Lilacs. A força das evidências, avaliada pelo sistema de classificação de Oxford, foi estabelecida a partir do desenho de estudo utilizado, considerando-se a melhor evidência disponível para cada questão. Resultados Foram definidas 11 questões sobre o diagnóstico, 8 sobre o tratamento cirúrgico e 13 questões abordando o seguimento do CMT, totalizando 32 recomendações. Como um todo, o artigo aborda o diagnóstico clínico e molecular, o tratamento cirúrgico inicial, o manejo pós-operatório e as opções terapêuticas para a doença metastática. Conclusões O diagnóstico de CMT deve ser suspeitado na presença de nódulo tireoidiano e história familiar de CMT e/ou associação com feocromocitoma, hiperparatireoidismo e/ou fenótipo sindrômico característico, como ganglioneuromatose e habitus marfanoides. A punção aspirativa por agulha fina do nódulo, a dosagem de calcitonina sérica e o exame anatomopatológico podem contribuir na confirmação do diagnóstico. A cirurgia é o único tratamento que oferece a possibilidade de cura. As opções de tratamento da doença metastática ainda são limitadas e restritas ao controle da doença. Uma avaliação pós-cirúrgica criteriosa para a identificação de doença residual ou recorrente é fundamental para definir o seguimento e a conduta terapêutica subsequente.
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Perros P, Boelaert K, Colley S, Evans C, Evans RM, Gerrard Ba G, Gilbert J, Harrison B, Johnson SJ, Giles TE, Moss L, Lewington V, Newbold K, Taylor J, Thakker RV, Watkinson J, Williams GR. Guidelines for the management of thyroid cancer. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2014; 81 Suppl 1:1-122. [PMID: 24989897 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 725] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Petros Perros
- Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
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Saltiki K, Rentziou G, Stamatelopoulos K, Georgiopoulos G, Stavrianos C, Lambrinoudaki E, Alevizaki M. Small medullary thyroid carcinoma: post-operative calcitonin rather than tumour size predicts disease persistence and progression. Eur J Endocrinol 2014; 171:117-26. [PMID: 24760539 DOI: 10.1530/eje-14-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recently, small medullary thyroid carcinomas (smallMTCs; ≤1.5 cm) are frequently diagnosed, occasionally as incidental findings in surgical specimens. Their clinical course varies. We examined tumour size as a predictor of clinical behaviour. DESIGN A retrospective study. METHODS A total of 128 smallMTC patients (35.2% males and 45% familial) were followed up for 0.9-30.9 years. According to tumour size (cm), patients were classified into four groups: group 1, 0.1-0.5 (n=33); group 2, 0.6-0.8 (n=33); group 3, 0.8-1.0 (n=29) and group 4, 1.1-1.5 (n=33). RESULTS Pre- and post-operative calcitonin levels were positively associated with the tumour size (P<0.001). Capsular and lymph node invasion were more frequent in groups 3 and 4 (P<0.03); the stage was more advanced and the outcome was less favourable with an increasing tumour size (P<0.001). Groups 1 and 2 patients were more frequently cured (group 1, 87.8%; group 2, 72.7%; group 3, 68.9%; and group 4, 48.5%; P=0.002). The 10-year probability of lack of disease progression according to the tumour size differed between patients with tumour sizes of 0.1-1.0 and 1.1-1.5 cm (96.6%, 81.3%, x(2)=4.03, P=0.045 for log-rank test). Post-operative calcitonin was the only predictor significantly associated with the 10-year progression of disease. Post-operative calcitonin levels ≥4.65 pg/ml predicted disease persistence (sensitivity 93.8% and specificity 90%) and ≥14.5 pg/ml predicted disease progression (sensitivity 100%, specificity 82%, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis). CONCLUSIONS Tumour size may be of clinical importance only in patients with MTCs >1 cm in size. Post-operative calcitonin is a more important predictor than size for disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Saltiki
- Endocrine UnitDepartment of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80, Vas Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens Greece
| | - Gianna Rentziou
- Endocrine UnitDepartment of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80, Vas Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens Greece
| | - Kimon Stamatelopoulos
- Endocrine UnitDepartment of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80, Vas Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens Greece
| | - Georgios Georgiopoulos
- Endocrine UnitDepartment of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80, Vas Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens Greece
| | - Charalambos Stavrianos
- Endocrine UnitDepartment of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80, Vas Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens Greece
| | - Eirini Lambrinoudaki
- Endocrine UnitDepartment of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80, Vas Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens Greece
| | - Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine UnitDepartment of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80, Vas Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens Greece
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Abstract
This article summarizes the major clinical, pathological, and molecular features of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), based on a review of the most significant advances in our understanding of this tumor type over the last 25 years. MTC is a neuroendocrine carcinoma that shows evidence of C-cell differentiation. The tumor has a distinctive morphologic appearance, including the presence of amyloid deposits. Immunostaining for calcitonin, carcinoembryonic antigen, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and thyroid transcription factor 1 is helpful in differential diagnosis. Identification of RET mutations in familial and sporadic MTC has brought important changes in early diagnosis and treatment. Surgery remains the cornerstone of effective therapy. Understanding the molecular basis of MTC will allow identification of novel approaches for individualized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Matias-Guiu
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Genetics and Research Laboratory, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova, University of Lleida IRBLLEIDA, Av Alcalde Rovira Roure 80, Lleida, 25198, Spain,
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Elisei R, Romei C. Calcitonin estimation in patients with nodular goiter and its significance for early detection of MTC: european comments to the guidelines of the American Thyroid Association. Thyroid Res 2013; 6 Suppl 1:S2. [PMID: 23514432 PMCID: PMC3599715 DOI: 10.1186/1756-6614-6-s1-s2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most discussed and controversial issue in the management of thyroid nodules is the need to perform a routine measurement of serum Calcitonin (Ct) in all cases. The American Thyroid Association guidelines do not recommend in favor or against this procedure since they retain that there are not enough evidences that it can determine an advantage to the health outcomes of these patients. This is not the view of many European experts who met in Lisbon in 2009 at the European Thyroid Association-Cancer Research Network meeting to discuss all the still open controversial issues on the management of medullary thyroid cancer patients. This paper is focused on the routine measurement of serum Ct in all patients with thyroid nodule(s): the evidences, the rational and the benefits of this procedure are deeply analysed following the discussion that was done in Lisbon. The conclusions reached at that time are reported in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Elisei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Pisa, Lungarno Pacinotti 43 - 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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Alevizaki M, Saltiki K, Rentziou G, Papathoma A, Sarika L, Vasileiou V, Anastasiou E. Medullary thyroid carcinoma: the influence of policy changing in clinical characteristics and disease progression. Eur J Endocrinol 2012; 167:799-808. [PMID: 22989468 DOI: 10.1530/eje-12-0388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) has varying clinical course. We assessed trends in MTC presentation during the last 34 years. DESIGN Retrospective study. METHODS One hundred and fifty one patients (44.4% males) were followed for 0.934 years. Patients were classified according to year of diagnosis: group 1, 1977-2000 (n=53) and group 2, 2001-2011 (n=98). Extent of disease at diagnosis, during follow-up, number of surgeries, and pre- and postoperative calcitonin levels were recorded. RESULTS In total, 48.34% reported family history of MTC. Group 1 had larger tumors (median 1.70 (intraquartile range (IQR) 1.7) vs 1.1 (1.2) cm, P=0.045, Mann-Whitney), they presented less frequently micro-MTCs (27.8 vs 46.1%, P=0.045), and underwent more multiple surgeries (63.3 vs 20.0%, P<0.001). Group 1 had more frequently progressive disease (35.8 vs 12.2%, P=0.003) and distant metastasis at follow-up (39.7 vs 17.4%, P=0.017). Chronological group (HR 0.15, 95% CI 0.03-0.68, P=0.015) and distant metastases at follow-up (HR 0.07, 95% CI 0.015-0.30, P=0.001) were independently associated with 10-year disease progression (P<0.001). In sporadic cases, cervical lymph node invasion and distant metastases at diagnosis were more frequent in group 1 (72.7 vs 45.5%, P=0.032 and 27.3 vs 5%, P=0.019 respectively); disease stage at diagnosis was more advanced (P=0.004). They underwent more multiple surgeries (P<0.001), presented more frequently distant metastasis at follow-up (67.7 vs 20.0%, P=0.002), had less frequently remission, and more frequently progressive disease (21.4 vs 58.0% and 64.3 vs 14.0% respectively, P<0.001). Postoperative calcitonin levels were higher (P=0.024). CONCLUSIONS Recently, an increase in micro-MTCs is observed, while indices of invasiveness and persistence of disease are better. Increased awareness in familial cases, routine calcitonin measurements, and improved surgical procedures could be responsible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Medical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University School of Medicine, 80 Vass Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece.
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Kazaure HS, Roman SA, Sosa JA. Medullary thyroid microcarcinoma. Cancer 2011; 118:620-7. [DOI: 10.1002/cncr.26283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2011] [Revised: 04/14/2011] [Accepted: 04/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Abstract
Calcitonin is considered to be a sensitive marker for medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) therefore early detection and surgical treatment may help to improve the clinical prognosis of MTC. Routine calcitonin measurement has therefore been recommended in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with nodular thyroid disease. In the case of elevated serum calcitonin (>20 pg/ml) stimulation testing is recommended to improve the predictive power for MTC particularly in patients with small nodules. Serum calcitonin measurement cannot reliably discriminate between micro-MTC (<10 mm) and C cell hyperplasia. In patients with stimulated calcitonin levels exceeding 100 pg/ml thyroidectomy is recommended because of a high inherent risk of MTC. Highly elevated basal and stimulated serum calcitonin levels are strongly suggestive of MTC with practical implications for surgical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Karges
- Universitätsklinikum Aachen, RWTH Aachen, Aachen.
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Machens A, Dralle H. Significance of Marginally Elevated Calcitonin Levels in Micromedullary Thyroid Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2009; 16:2960. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-009-0642-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2009] [Accepted: 07/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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