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Radiotherapy in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: An Australian experience
Kevin So1,2, Robin E Smith1, Sidney R Davis1,3
1Alfred Health Radiation Oncology, The Alfred, Prahran, Victoria, Australia.
Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology
|April 8, 2017
Summary
Anaplastic thyroid cancer treatment, including radiotherapy, surgery, and chemotherapy, is well-tolerated. This approach achieves durable loco-regional control in most patients, offering hope for this rare malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is a rare, aggressive, and often fatal cancer.
- It is associated with significant morbidity from the tumor and its treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the experience of treating anaplastic thyroid carcinoma over a 20-year period.
- To evaluate treatment outcomes, including loco-regional control and toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of prospectively collected data from 1992-2013.
- Inclusion of patients with anaplastic thyroid carcinoma referred to a single Australian institution.
- Analysis of treatment modalities (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy) and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Thirty patients (median age 72) were analyzed, with stages IVA, IVB, and IVC disease.
- Radiotherapy was offered to 28 patients, with 27 receiving treatment (adjuvant, definitive, or palliative intent).
- Median survival was 5.3 months, with 70.4% achieving loco-regional control; R1 resections and radiotherapy showed 100% loco-regional control.
Conclusions:
- Radiotherapy, with or without surgery or chemotherapy, is a well-tolerated treatment for anaplastic thyroid carcinoma.
- This multimodal approach results in durable loco-regional control in a high proportion of patients.
- Findings support the role of radiotherapy in managing this challenging malignancy.