[Update on differenciated thyroid carcinoma]

Abstract

Differenciated thyroid carcinomas are the most frequently encountered endocrine tumours. These hormono-dependent carcinomas have a good prognosis. Data derived from molecular biology allowed a better understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms involved in tumorigenesis of thyroid papillar and follicular carcinomas. The use of the works derived from molecular biology also allowed a better diagnostic and therapeutic management of the thyroid cancer patients, particularly using recombinant human TSH. Familial thyroid cancer disease must also be recognised to optimise the clinical managemet of patients and their family.