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Risk factors for recurrence in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma undergoing modified radical neck dissection
1Departments of Surgery, Asan Medical Centre, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
The British Journal of Surgery
|April 29, 2016
Summary
Lymph node factors significantly impact recurrence risk in papillary thyroid cancer (pN1b). Larger metastatic lymph nodes and central compartment ratios predict locoregional recurrence, while age and extranodal extension predict distant metastasis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Head and Neck Cancer Research
Background:
- Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) with lateral lymph node metastasis (pN1b) presents a risk for recurrence.
- Understanding lymph node factors is crucial for predicting recurrence patterns in these patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of lymph node characteristics on the risk and site of recurrence in pN1b papillary thyroid carcinoma patients.
- To identify specific lymph node-related predictors for locoregional and distant recurrence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 324 patients with pN1b PTC who underwent total thyroidectomy and unilateral modified radical neck dissection.
- Evaluation of recurrence risk factors based on recurrence patterns (locoregional vs. distant).
Main Results:
- Recurrence was observed in 14.5% of patients over a median follow-up of 63 months.
- Independent risk factors for locoregional recurrence included metastatic lymph node diameter >2.0 cm and a central compartment lymph node ratio >0.42.
- Age ≥45 years and extranodal extension were identified as risk factors for distant metastasis.
Conclusions:
- Lymph node-related factors are significant predictors of recurrence in pN1b papillary thyroid carcinoma.
- Specific lymph node characteristics influence the risk and site of recurrence, guiding personalized treatment strategies.
