[Association of hyperthyroidism with differentiated thyroid cancer]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Hyperthyroidism is commonly associated with benign thyroid conditions.
• However, the co-occurrence of hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer is increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of differentiated thyroid cancer in patients diagnosed with hyperthyroidism.
• To analyze the characteristics and outcomes of thyroid cancer in this patient cohort.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 355 patient files from 1986 to 2014.
• Analysis of patients with differentiated thyroid cancer and co-existing hyperthyroidism.
• Review of clinical, pathological, and treatment data.

Main Results:

• A prevalence of 3.38% for differentiated thyroid cancer was found in hyperthyroid patients (12 out of 355).
• The average age of diagnosis was 44.8 years, with a female predominance.
• Papillary carcinoma was the most common type (100%), with microcarcinoma being predominant (6 cases).
• One case of insular carcinoma presented with distant metastases.

Conclusions:

• Hyperthyroidism does not rule out the possibility of concurrent thyroid cancer.
• Thyroid nodules in hyperthyroid patients require thorough investigation for malignancy.
• A comprehensive diagnostic approach is essential for all thyroid nodules, irrespective of hyperthyroid status.