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Updated: Feb 7, 2026
Pre-clinical Evaluation of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for Treatment of Acute Leukemia
Published on: September 18, 2013
Managing tyrosine kinase inhibitors side effects in thyroid cancer
Jolanta Krajewska1, Ewa Paliczka-Cieslik1, Barbara Jarzab1
1a Nuclear Medicine and Endocrine Oncology Department , M.Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Center and Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch , Gliwice , Poland.
Background:
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are a new group of drugs that show the activity against receptors of different growth factors leading to the inhibition of tumor cells growth and proliferation. To date, four different TKIs have been approved for RAI-refractory DTC or MTC: sorafenib, lenvatinib, vandetanib and cabozantinib.
Methods:
This review focuses on treatment toxicity related to above-mentioned TKIs administration in thyroid carcinoma.
Results:
TKIs cause a variety of side effects in nearly all treated patients, among them: hypertension, gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting), skin reactions (rashes, acne, hand-foot syndrome), fatigue and weight loss. Most of side effects are mild and moderate and manageable by dose adjustment (dose interruptions and dose reductions) and concomitant therapy. However, some complications although rare may be life-threatening or even fatal. Conclusion: TKIs shows an acceptable toxicity profile in patients with advanced and progressive RAI refractory DTC and MTC but only in experienced hands familiar with TKIs, particularly with diagnostics and management of treatment-related complications and also with thyroid carcinoma, what is essential to safely care for the patients and keep them on kinase inhibitor therapy as long as the treatment is beneficial without an unfavorable impact on their quality of life.
Insights
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) offer a new treatment for advanced thyroid cancer. While generally manageable, careful monitoring by experienced clinicians is crucial to mitigate potential severe side effects.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) target growth factor receptors to inhibit tumor growth.
- Four TKIs (sorafenib, lenvatinib, vandetanib, cabozantinib) are approved for RAI-refractory differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) or medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
Purpose of the Study:
- This review examines the treatment toxicity associated with approved TKIs in thyroid carcinoma patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on adverse events reported for specific TKIs used in thyroid cancer treatment.
Main Results:
- TKIs commonly cause side effects including hypertension, gastrointestinal issues, skin reactions, fatigue, and weight loss.
- Most side effects are manageable through dose adjustments and supportive care.
- Rarely, severe or fatal complications can occur.
Conclusions:
- TKIs demonstrate an acceptable toxicity profile for advanced RAI-refractory DTC and MTC when managed by experienced teams.
- Expertise in managing TKI-related complications and thyroid cancer is essential for safe and effective patient care, optimizing quality of life.
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