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Review
. 2017 Oct;24(5):332-336.
doi: 10.1097/MED.0000000000000359.

The thyroid cancer epidemic, 2017 perspective

Affiliations
Review

The thyroid cancer epidemic, 2017 perspective

Benjamin R Roman et al. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2017 Oct.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Thyroid cancer incidence and mortality trends have been identified as being consistent with overdiagnosis, and several recent efforts have been made to mitigate this problem.

Recent findings: Major guidelines for thyroid nodule management recommend against general biopsy of nodules less than 1 cm in size. Data supporting the safety of active surveillance of low-risk thyroid cancers is now recognized. Tumors previously labeled as encapsulated follicular variant papillary thyroid cancers are now recommended to be called noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features.

Summary: Workup, diagnostic, and management of papillary thyroid cancer are changing rapidly to accommodate the recognition that many thyroid cancers are low risk and do not require aggressive, immediate intervention.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest: Dr. Morris reports that he has been a speaker for Pfizer.

References

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