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Updated: Mar 15, 2026
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Computer-Aided Three-Dimensional Visualization in the Treatment of Locally Advanced Thyroid Cancer
Published on: June 9, 2023
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Secondary malignancy following radiotherapy for thyroid eye disease
Christopher C Gillis1, Eun Hae Chang2, Khalid Al-Kharazi3
1Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States; Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Summary
Radiotherapy for thyroid eye disease (TED) carries a real risk of secondary malignancy, including meningioma and hematologic cancers. This risk is comparable to theoretical estimates, warranting careful consideration in treatment planning.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Radiation Oncology
- Oncology
Background:
- Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune disorder causing orbital tissue expansion and morbidity.
- Established TED treatments include corticosteroids, orbital radiotherapy, and surgery.
- Previous studies on TED radiotherapy reported no secondary malignancies.
Observation:
- A patient developed a sphenoid wing meningioma after TED radiotherapy.
- A review of 575 TED patients treated with radiotherapy was conducted.
- Three additional cases of hematologic malignancy were identified.
Findings:
- The incidence of radiation-induced meningioma after TED was 0.17% (1/575).
- The overall risk of secondary malignancy (meningioma and hematologic) was 0.7% (4/575).
- These risks align with previously reported theoretical risks (0.3-1.2%).
Implications:
- Radiotherapy for TED poses a genuine risk of secondary malignancy.
- Treatment decisions for TED should incorporate the potential for secondary cancers.
- Further research may refine risk assessment and management strategies.
