Detectable thyroglobulin with negative imaging in differentiated thyroid cancer patients. What to do with negative anatomical imaging and radioiodine scan?

Nuklearmedizin. 2014;53(1):1-10. doi: 10.3413/Nukmed-0618-13-08. Epub 2013 Dec 5.

Abstract

In the absence of autoantibodies against thyroglobulin (Tg), Tg measurement nowadays is the cornerstone of clinical management of differentiated thyroid cancer patients. DTC patients presenting with a positive Tg measurement without an anatomical correlate on anatomic imaging provide a management challenge to the attending physician. Based on the literature we will provide an overview of the most important steps to undertake in such patients and their potential clinical consequences.

Keywords: Differentiated thyroid carcinoma; positron emission tomography; thyroglobulin; whole body scan.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Diagnostic Errors / prevention & control*
  • False Negative Reactions
  • Humans
  • Iodine Radioisotopes*
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / methods
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Thyroglobulin / blood*
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / blood*
  • Thyroid Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Iodine Radioisotopes
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Thyroglobulin