1
|
Heinzel A, Müller D, van Santen HM, Clement SC, Schneider AB, Verburg FA. The effect of surveillance for differentiated thyroid carcinoma in childhood cancer survivors on survival rates: a decision-tree-based analysis. Endocr Connect 2022; 11:e220092. [PMID: 36240044 PMCID: PMC9716375 DOI: 10.1530/ec-22-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Background Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) who received radiation therapy exposing the thyroid gland are at increased risk of developing differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). Therefore, the International Guideline Harmonization Group (IGHG) on late effects of childhood cancer therefore recommends surveillance. It is unclear whether surveillance reduces mortality. Aim The aim of this study was to compare four strategies for DTC surveillance in CCS with the aim of reducing mortality: Strategy-1, no surveillance; Strategy-2, ultrasound alone; Strategy-3, ultrasound followed by fine-needle biopsy (FNB); Strategy-4, palpation followed by ultrasound and FNB. Materials and methods A decision tree was formulated with 10-year thyroid cancer-specific survival as the endpoint, based on data extracted from literature. Results It was calculated that 12.6% of CCS will develop DTC. Using Strategy-1, all CCS with DTC would erroneously not be operated upon, but no CCS would have unnecessary surgery. With Strategy-2, all CCS with and 55.6% of CCS without DTC would be operated. Using Strategy-3, 11.1% of CCS with DTC would be correctly operated upon, 11.2% without DTC would be operated upon and 1.5% with DTC would not be operated upon. With Strategy-4, these percentages would be 6.8, 3.9 and 5.8%, respectively. Median 10-year survival rates would be equal across strategies (0.997). Conclusion Different surveillance strategies for DTC in CCS all result in the same high DTC survival. Therefore, the indication for surveillance may lie in a reduction of surgery-related morbidity rather than DTC-related mortality. In accordance with the IGHG guidelines, the precise strategy should be decided upon in a process of shared decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Heinzel
- RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Aachen, Germany
| | - Dirk Müller
- Institute for Health Economics and Clinical Epidemiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hanneke M van Santen
- Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah C Clement
- Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arthur B Schneider
- University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Frederik A Verburg
- Erasmus MC Rotterdam, Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Abstract
Clinical evidence supports the association of ultrasound features with benign or malignant thyroid nodules and serves as the basis for sonographic stratification of thyroid nodules, according to an estimated thyroid cancer risk. Contemporary guidelines recommend management strategies according to thyroid cancer risk, thyroid nodule size, and the clinical scenario. Yet, reproducible and accurate thyroid nodule risk stratification requires expertise, time, and understanding of the weight different ultrasound features have on thyroid cancer risk. The application of artificial intelligence to overcome these limitations is promising and has the potential to improve the care of patients with thyroid nodules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nydia Burgos
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, Paseo Dr. Jose Celso Barbosa, San Juan 00921, Puerto Rico
| | - Naykky Singh Ospina
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Jennifer A Sipos
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Balancing the benefits and harms of thyroid cancer surveillance in survivors of Childhood, adolescent and young adult cancer: Recommendations from the international Late Effects of Childhood Cancer Guideline Harmonization Group in collaboration with the PanCareSurFup Consortium. Cancer Treat Rev 2018; 63:28-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
4
|
Screening for thyroid cancer in survivors of childhood and young adult cancer treated with neck radiation. J Cancer Surviv 2016; 11:302-308. [PMID: 28028762 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-016-0588-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The optimal method of screening for thyroid cancer in survivors of childhood and young adult cancer exposed to neck radiation remains controversial. Outcome data for a physical exam-based screening approach are lacking. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of adult survivors of childhood and young adult cancer with a history of neck radiation followed in the Adult Long-Term Follow-Up Clinic at Memorial Sloan Kettering between November 2005 and August 2014. Eligible patients underwent a physical exam of the thyroid and were followed for at least 1 year afterwards. Ineligible patients were those with prior diagnosis of benign or malignant thyroid nodules. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 3.1 years (range 0-9.4 years), 106 ultrasounds and 2277 physical exams were performed among 585 patients. Forty survivors had an abnormal thyroid physical exam median of 21 years from radiotherapy; 50% of those with an abnormal exam were survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma, 60% had radiation at ages 10-19, and 53% were female. Ultimately, 24 underwent fine needle aspiration (FNA). Surgery revealed papillary carcinoma in seven survivors; six are currently free of disease and one with active disease is undergoing watchful waiting. Among those with one or more annual visits, representing 1732 person-years of follow-up, no cases of thyroid cancer were diagnosed within a year of normal physical exam. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the application of annual physical exam without routine ultrasound for thyroid cancer screening among survivors with a history of neck radiation. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Survivors with a history of neck radiation may not require routine thyroid ultrasound for thyroid cancer screening. Among adult survivors of childhood and young adult cancer with a history of radiation therapy to the neck, annual physical exam is an acceptable thyroid cancer screening strategy.
Collapse
|
5
|
Wijnen M, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Medici M, Peeters RP, van der Lely AJ, Neggers SJCMM. Risk factors for subsequent endocrine-related cancer in childhood cancer survivors. Endocr Relat Cancer 2016; 23:R299-321. [PMID: 27229933 DOI: 10.1530/erc-16-0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Long-term adverse health conditions, including secondary malignant neoplasms, are common in childhood cancer survivors. Although mortality attributable to secondary malignancies declined over the past decades, the risk for developing a solid secondary malignant neoplasm did not. Endocrine-related malignancies are among the most common secondary malignant neoplasms observed in childhood cancer survivors. In this systematic review, we describe risk factors for secondary malignant neoplasms of the breast and thyroid, since these are the most common secondary endocrine-related malignancies in childhood cancer survivors. Radiotherapy is the most important risk factor for secondary breast and thyroid cancer in childhood cancer survivors. Breast cancer risk is especially increased in survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma who received moderate- to high-dosed mantle field irradiation. Recent studies also demonstrated an increased risk after lower-dose irradiation in other radiation fields for other childhood cancer subtypes. Premature ovarian insufficiency may protect against radiation-induced breast cancer. Although evidence is weak, estrogen-progestin replacement therapy does not seem to be associated with an increased breast cancer risk in premature ovarian-insufficient childhood cancer survivors. Radiotherapy involving the thyroid gland increases the risk for secondary differentiated thyroid carcinoma, as well as benign thyroid nodules. Currently available studies on secondary malignant neoplasms in childhood cancer survivors are limited by short follow-up durations and assessed before treatment regimens. In addition, studies on risk-modifying effects of environmental and lifestyle factors are lacking. Risk-modifying effects of premature ovarian insufficiency and estrogen-progestin replacement therapy on radiation-induced breast cancer require further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Wijnen
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/HematologyErasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands Department of MedicineSection Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/HematologyErasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M Medici
- Department of MedicineSection Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands Rotterdam Thyroid CenterErasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - R P Peeters
- Department of MedicineSection Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands Rotterdam Thyroid CenterErasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A J van der Lely
- Department of MedicineSection Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S J C M M Neggers
- Department of Pediatric Oncology/HematologyErasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands Department of MedicineSection Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ho WLC, Zacharin MR. Thyroid carcinoma in children, adolescents and adults, both spontaneous and after childhood radiation exposure. Eur J Pediatr 2016; 175:677-83. [PMID: 26805408 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-016-2692-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Thyroid carcinoma is the most common second malignancy for childhood cancer survivors. Radiation exposure is linked to risk. Thyroid nodules in children have a high risk for malignancy, whether spontaneous or after radiation. Due to the extremely limited available paediatric data, we sought to review a series of patients with thyroid carcinoma, seen over 25 years. Forty-six patients were identified. Thirty-nine (84.8 %) had papillary thyroid carcinoma, five (10.9 %) follicular carcinoma and 2 (4.3 %) medullary thyroid carcinoma (MEN2B). Thirty-three (71.7 %) had childhood radiation exposure (17 females) with thyroid malignancy occurring 6-37 years later. The smallest nodule size found on surveillance to have thyroid malignancy was 4 mm. Thyroid cancer in patients 16 years and under was seen in 22 patients (47.8 %). All had total thyroidectomy, with initial central node clearance from 2005. Diagnostic rTSH stimulated I(123) scan was followed by ablative I(131) if any uptake was seen. Sixteen (32.6 %) had metastases. Twenty-four (52.2 %) had I(131), four requiring multiple courses. Forty-two remain alive and well. CONCLUSION Ultrasound screening is required for early diagnosis as small nodule size is not predictive of benign histology or absence of metastases. Central node clearance provides better outcome. Despite metastatic disease at presentation for some, prognosis is favourable. WHAT IS KNOWN • Incidence of thyroid cancer has been increasing and radiation exposure in childhood cancer survivors is clearly linked to risk. • Published guidelines in many places can only provide very low level evidence due to extremely limited available paediatric data. What is New: • Paper provides good evidence to confirm existing views with the largest cohort of thyroid cancer reported to date in the paediatric age group in Australia, and the largest cohort in Australia where there have been specific high risks of radiation exposure. The only other reported larger studies have come from the Children's Oncology Group and Childhood Cancer Survivor Study [24]. • Using diagnostic rTSH stimulated I(123) scan 6 weeks after surgery helps to determine if radioactive iodine ablation is necessary and limits unnecessary bone marrow exposure for young patients in whom future leukaemia is of greater concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li Cindy Ho
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, 3052, Victoria, Australia. .,Khoo Teck Puat-National University Children's Medical Institute, National University Hospital, Singapore, 119074, Singapore. .,Department of Endocrinology, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Rd, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Margaret R Zacharin
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, 3052, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Clement SC, Kremer LCM, Links TP, Mulder RL, Ronckers CM, van Eck-Smit BLF, van Rijn RR, van der Pal HJH, Tissing WJE, Janssens GO, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Neggers SJCMM, van Dijkum EJMN, Peeters RP, van Santen HM. Is outcome of differentiated thyroid carcinoma influenced by tumor stage at diagnosis? Cancer Treat Rev 2014; 41:9-16. [PMID: 25544598 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2014.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Revised: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no international consensus on surveillance strategies for differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) after radiotherapy for childhood cancer. Ultrasonography could allow for early detection of DTC, however, its value is yet unclear since the prognosis of DTC is excellent. We addressed the evidence for the question: 'is outcome of DTC influenced by tumor stage at diagnosis?'. METHODS A multidisciplinary working group answered the sub-questions: 'is recurrence or mortality influenced by DTC stage at diagnosis? Does detection of DTC at an early stage contribute to a decline in adverse events of treatment?' The literature was systematically reviewed, and conclusions were drawn based on the level of evidence (A: high, B: moderate to low, C: very low). RESULTS In children, level C evidence was found that detection of DTC at an early stage is associated with lower recurrence and mortality rates. No evidence was found that it influences morbidity rates. In adults, clear evidence was found that less advanced staged DTC is a favorable prognostic factor for recurrence (level B) and mortality (level A). Additionally, it was found that more extensive surgery increases the risk to develop transient hypoparathyroidism (level A) and that higher doses of radioiodine increases the risk to develop second primary malignancies (level B). CONCLUSION Identification of DTC at an early stage is beneficial for children (very low level evidence) and adults (moderate to high level evidence), even considering that the overall outcome is excellent. These results are an important cornerstone for the development of guidelines for childhood cancer survivors at risk for DTC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Clement
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - L C M Kremer
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG-LATER), PO Box 43515, 2504 AM The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - T P Links
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - R L Mulder
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C M Ronckers
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG-LATER), PO Box 43515, 2504 AM The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - B L F van Eck-Smit
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R R van Rijn
- Department of Radiology, Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H J H van der Pal
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital/Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG-LATER), PO Box 43515, 2504 AM The Hague, The Netherlands; Department of Oncology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - W J E Tissing
- Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG-LATER), PO Box 43515, 2504 AM The Hague, The Netherlands; Department of Pediatric Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - G O Janssens
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Radboud University Medical Centre, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - M M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG-LATER), PO Box 43515, 2504 AM The Hague, The Netherlands; Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Erasmus MC/Sophia Children's Hospital, PO Box 2060, 3000 CB Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S J C M M Neggers
- Dutch Childhood Oncology Group (DCOG-LATER), PO Box 43515, 2504 AM The Hague, The Netherlands; Department of Internal Medicine/Endocrinology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E J M Nieveen van Dijkum
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Emma Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 22660, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R P Peeters
- Department of Internal Medicine/Endocrinology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Rotterdam Thyroid Center, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H M van Santen
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital/University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 85090, 3508 AB Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Vlachopoulou V, Antypas C, Delis H, Tzouras A, Salvaras N, Kardamakis D, Panayiotakis G. Peripheral doses in patients undergoing Cyberknife treatment for intracranial lesions. A single centre experience. Radiat Oncol 2011; 6:157. [PMID: 22082279 PMCID: PMC3228676 DOI: 10.1186/1748-717x-6-157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stereotactic radiosurgery/radiotherapy procedures are known to deliver a very high dose per fraction, and thus, the corresponding peripheral dose could be a limiting factor for the long term surviving patients. The aim of this clinical study was to measure the peripheral dose delivered to patients undergoing intracranial Cyberknife treatment, using the MOSFET dosimeters. The influence of the supplemental shielding, the number of monitor units and the collimator size to the peripheral dose were investigated. Methods MOSFET dosimeters were placed in preselected anatomical regions of the patient undergoing Cyberknife treatment, namely the thyroid gland, the nipple, the umbilicus and the pubic symphysis. Results The mean peripheral doses before the supplemental shielding was added to the Cyberknife unit were 51.79 cGy, 13.31 cGy and 10.07 cGy while after the shielding upgrade they were 38.40 cGy, 10.94 cGy, and 8.69 cGy, in the thyroid gland, the umbilicus and the pubic symphysis, respectively. The increase of the collimator size corresponds to an increase of the PD and becomes less significant at larger distances, indicating that at these distances the PD is predominate due to the head leakage and collimator scatter. Conclusion Weighting the effect of the number of monitor units and the collimator size can be effectively used during the optimization procedure in order to choose the most suitable treatment plan that will deliver the maximum dose to the tumor, while being compatible with the dose constraints for the surrounding organs at risk. Attention is required in defining the thyroid gland as a structure of avoidance in the treatment plan especially in patients with benign diseases.
Collapse
|
9
|
Sinnott B, Ron E, Schneider AB. Exposing the thyroid to radiation: a review of its current extent, risks, and implications. Endocr Rev 2010; 31:756-73. [PMID: 20650861 PMCID: PMC3365850 DOI: 10.1210/er.2010-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2010] [Accepted: 06/04/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Radiation exposure of the thyroid at a young age is a recognized risk factor for the development of differentiated thyroid cancer lasting for four decades and probably for a lifetime after exposure. Medical radiation exposure, however, occurs frequently, including among the pediatric population, which is especially sensitive to the effects of radiation. In the past, the treatment of benign medical conditions with external radiation represented the most significant thyroid radiation exposures. Today, diagnostic medical radiation represents the largest source of man-made radiation exposure. Radiation exposure related to the use of computerized tomography is rising exponentially, particularly in the pediatric population. There is direct epidemiological evidence of a small but significant increased risk of cancer at radiation doses equivalent to computerized tomography doses used today. Paralleling the increasing use of medical radiation is an increase in the incidence of papillary thyroid cancer. At present, it is unclear how much of this increase is related to increased detection of subclinical disease from the increased utilization of ultrasonography and fine-needle aspiration, how much is due to a true increase in thyroid cancer, and how much, if any, can be ascribed to medical radiation exposure. Fortunately, the amount of radiation exposure from medical sources can be reduced. In this article we review the sources of thyroid radiation exposure, radiation risks to the thyroid gland, strategies for reducing radiation exposure to the thyroid, and ways that endocrinologists can participate in this effort. Finally, we provide some suggestions for future research directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Sinnott
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1819 West Polk Street (MC 640), Chicago, Illinois 60612, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Paulides M, Dörr HG, Stöhr W, Bielack S, Koscielniak E, Klingebiel T, Jürgens H, Bölling T, Willich N, Sauer R, Langer T, Beck JD. Thyroid function in paediatric and young adult patients after sarcoma therapy: a report from the Late Effects Surveillance System. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2007; 66:727-31. [PMID: 17381483 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2007.02813.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The role of chemotherapy in thyroid sequelae after cancer treatment has not been studied systematically, especially in sarcoma patients. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of post-therapeutic thyroid disorders and their contributing factors in a cohort of paediatric sarcoma patients. DESIGN Late effects of sarcoma treatment have been collected prospectively within the Late Effects Surveillance System (LESS) in Germany, Austria and Switzerland since 1998. PATIENTS We studied 340 relapse-free paediatric patients (median age at diagnosis 12.2 [interquartile range (IQR) = 7.3-15.6 years] treated for osteosarcoma, soft tissue sarcoma or Ewing's sarcoma within the COSS-96, CWS-96/CWS-2002P or EICESS-92/EURO-E.W.I.N.G.-99 therapy trials. In addition to polychemotherapy, 127 patients were irradiated (mean cumulative dose 47 +/- 9.7 Gy), including 51 patients with irradiation to the head/neck region. Median follow-up was 24.6 (IQR = 11.9-44.9) months. MEASUREMENTS We reviewed the results of yearly examinations of serum TSH and fT4 levels and thyroid ultrasound examinations. RESULTS The incidence of thyroid disorders was 37% (19/51, 95% CI 24-52%) in patients with head/neck irradiation, and 11% (32/289, 95% CI 8-15%) in patients without irradiation to the head/neck. Thyroid disorders were more frequent in patients treated with idarubicin (P = 0.027) and trofosfamide (P = 0.016). We also found a significant association between raised TSH levels and treatment with trofosfamide (P = 0.008) or idarubicin (P = 0.037) (n = 250). CONCLUSIONS The incidence of thyroid disorders in the head/neck-irradiated group was high. Even without head/neck irradiation, we found an increased proportion of patients with thyroid disorders, possibly as a result of chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Paulides
- LESS Study Center, University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sadetzki S, Chetrit A, Lubina A, Stovall M, Novikov I. Risk of thyroid cancer after childhood exposure to ionizing radiation for tinea capitis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2006; 91:4798-804. [PMID: 17018661 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2006-0743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The thyroid gland is known to be sensitive to the carcinogenic effect of ionizing radiation, especially in children. The role of potential modifiers of the risk and latency period effects needs further investigation. We examined the effect of low doses of ionizing radiation (4.5-49.5 cGy) on the risk of developing thyroid cancer after long latent periods of up to 54 yr after childhood exposure. METHODS The study population included 10,834 individuals irradiated against tinea capitis in the 1950s and two matched nonirradiated groups (general population and siblings) for comparison. Cancer statistics and vital status data were obtained from national registries, updated to December 2002. Excess relative and absolute risks [excess relative risk per gray (ERR/Gy), excess absolute risk (EAR)] were estimated using Poisson regression for survival analysis. RESULTS Within the study period, 159 cases of thyroid cancer were diagnosed. Total ERR/Gy and excess absolute risk per gray per 10(4) person-years for developing thyroid cancer reached 20.2 (95% confidence interval 11.8-32.3) and 9.9 (95% confidence interval 5.7-14.7), respectively. The risk was positively associated with dose and negatively associated with age at exposure. ERR/Gy was significantly elevated 10-19 yr after exposure, peaking at 20-30 yr, and decreasing dramatically (although still significantly elevated) 40 yr after exposure. CONCLUSIONS Our findings agree with patterns of risk modification seen in most studies of radiation-induced thyroid cancer, although risk per unit dose seems higher. Our data show that 40 yr after irradiation, ERR decreases dramatically, although remaining significantly elevated. The hypothesis of different genetic susceptibility of the Jewish population deserves further exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siegal Sadetzki
- Cancer and Radiation Epidemiology Unit, Gertner Institute, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer 52621, Israel.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Clinically, solitary thyroid nodules are common, being present in up to 50% of the elderly population. The majority are benign with thyroid cancer representing an uncommon clinical problem. Investigation should include careful history and examination and thyroid function tests. Toxic or autonomous nodules are rarely malignant and require radionuclide scan for assessment. If euthyroid, then fine needle biopsy provides direct specific information about the cytology of the nodule from which the histology can be inferred. Thyroid 'incidentalomas' are a common management problem. Non-palpable nodules greater than 1.0 to 1.5 cm represent an absolute indication to perform an ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy. An atypical fine needle biopsy mandates formal diagnostic excision. Because it is not possible to distinguish a follicular carcinoma from a follicular adenoma on cytological grounds alone, this category must simply be interpreted as indicating a follicular tumour and up to 20% will be malignant. Hemithyroidectomy via a 'collar' incision, with submission of the specimen to formal pathological examination, remains the standard of care, with completion total thyroidectomy for cancers other than low risk papillary cancer and 'minimally invasive' follicular cancer without vascular invasion. The issue of whether follicular adenomas can potentially develop into follicular carcinomas has yet to be satisfactorily resolved. The major challenge in the management of the solitary thyroid nodule remains the assessment as to which nodules require surgical excision and which can be followed conservatively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leigh Delbridge
- University of Sydney, Endocrine Surgical Unit, Department of Surgery, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of our study were to review the Royal Children's Hospital cohort of children having thyroidectomy for thyroid nodules over the last 8 years and to report the changing pattern of thyroid cancer seen in our institution over that time. METHODS We undertook a retrospective case-note review of all patients who underwent thyroid surgery between 1997 and 2004. RESULTS Of 69 patients identified, the pathological diagnoses were 51 benign tumours, 14 thyroid cancers and four cases of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, who were treated with prophylactic thyroidectomy. Sixteen of the 69 patients had a history of childhood cancer and 10/16 had cancer treatment which included direct or scatter radiation. Of the 10 patients who received irradiation, four had follicular adenomas and six developed thyroid cancer. All six patients were euthyroid: one patient was presented with a palpable nodule and the other five were detected on surveillance ultrasound. CONCLUSIONS Our results confirm a high detection of malignancy in thyroid nodules in childhood. Compared to an earlier study at this institution, the number of thyroid malignancies appears to be increasing. Surveillance at the Royal Children's Hospital has changed, with increased long-term cancer survival. Prospective 2-yearly evaluation of those with a past history of radiation exposure has resulted in earlier detection of benign and malignant thyroid lesions. Nodular changes are usually not clinically apparent for many years and lifelong surveillance is necessary for cancer detection in this group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Hameed
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
|
15
|
Jereczek-Fossa BA, Alterio D, Jassem J, Gibelli B, Tradati N, Orecchia R. Radiotherapy-induced thyroid disorders. Cancer Treat Rev 2004; 30:369-84. [PMID: 15145511 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2003.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite their specific functional consequences, radiotherapy-induced thyroid abnormalities remain under-estimated and underreported. These sequelae may include primary or central hypothyroidism, thyroiditis, Graves' disease, euthyroid Graves' ophthalmopathy, benign adenomas, multinodular goitre and radiation-induced thyroid carcinoma. Primary hypothyroidism, the most common radiation-induced thyroid dysfunction, affects 20-30% of patients administered following curative radiotherapy to the neck region, with approximately half of the events occurring within the first 5 years after therapy. The relative risk of radiation-induced cancer (mainly well-differentiated tumours) is 15-53-fold higher than in non-irradiated population. The aetiology of radiation-induced thyroid injury includes vascular damage, parenchymal cell damage and auto-immune reactions. Total radiotherapy dose, irradiated volume of the thyroid gland, and the extent of prior thyroid resection are among the most important factors associated with the risk of hypothyroidism. The contribution of other treatment modalities (chemotherapy, endocrine therapy) as well as patient- and tumour-related factors is less clear. Reduction in radiation dose to the thyroid gland and hypothalamic/pituitary complex should be attempted whenever possible. New radiotherapy techniques, such as stereotactic radiosurgery, three-dimensional conformal irradiation, intensity modulated radiotherapy and proton therapy allow generally better dose distribution with lower dose to the non-target organs. The diagnostic approach to thyroid radiation injury includes baseline thyroid function assays in all patients undergoing thyroid or parasellar irradiation. Recommended follow-up procedures include at least annual evaluation with a history for symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, clinical examination, and measurement of thyroid hormones and thyrotropin. Management of overt hypothyroidism is based on hormone replacement therapy. Thyroid hormone therapy is also recommended in cases of subclinical hypothyroidism. Treatment of other radiation-induced thyroid disorders (thyroiditis, Graves' disease, thyroid cancer) is similar to that employed in spontaneously occurring conditions. Further improvements in radiotherapy techniques and progress in endocrine diagnostics and therapy may allow better prevention and management of radiation-related thyroid injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Jereczek-Fossa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, European Institute of Oncology, 435 via Ripamonti, 20141 Milan, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Cohen A, van der Schaaf A. Scatter irradiation in childhood causes thyroid cancer. Med J Aust 2002; 176:570-1. [PMID: 12064952 DOI: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2002.tb04584.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2002] [Accepted: 04/15/2002] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|