Thyroid and Parathyroid Tumors

Abstract

Thyroid and parathyroid tumors are rare in children. The most common types are papillary and follicular carcinoma, collectively referred to as differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). Compared to adults, children with DTC typically present with more advanced disease but they have an excellent prognosis with a high cure rate and low risk of death, at least in the short-term. Current treatment recommendations are based largely on adult data supplemented by a small number of pediatric reports. This treatment consists of total thyroidectomy for DTC followed in most cases by radioactive I131 for remnant ablation and control of residual occult local and metastatic disease. Long-term follow-up is mandatory.