Progress in molecular-based management of differentiated thyroid cancer

Lancet. 2013 Mar 23;381(9871):1058-69. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(13)60109-9. Epub 2013 Mar 22.

Abstract

Substantial developments have occurred in the past 5-10 years in clinical translational research of thyroid cancer. Diagnostic molecular markers, such as RET-PTC, RAS, and BRAF(V600E) mutations; galectin 3; and a new gene expression classifier, are outstanding examples that have improved diagnosis of thyroid nodules. BRAF mutation is a prognostic genetic marker that has improved risk stratification and hence tailored management of patients with thyroid cancer, including those with conventionally low risks. Novel molecular-targeted treatments hold great promise for radioiodine-refractory and surgically inoperable thyroid cancers as shown in clinical trials; such treatments are likely to become a component of the standard treatment regimen for patients with thyroid cancer in the near future. These novel molecular-based management strategies for thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer are the most exciting developments in this unprecedented era of molecular thyroid-cancer medicine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / blood*
  • Carcinoma / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma / genetics
  • Carcinoma / therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Papillary
  • Early Detection of Cancer
  • Genes, Neoplasm / genetics
  • Genetic Markers
  • Genetic Testing / methods
  • Humans
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / methods
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / trends*
  • Mutation / genetics
  • Prognosis
  • Thyroid Cancer, Papillary
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / genetics
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / therapy*

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Genetic Markers