Detection and management of cervical lymph nodes in papillary thyroid cancer

Lymph node metastases in papillary thyroid cancer are a common occurrence; however, the management of clinically negative cervical lymph nodes remains controversial. Preoperative neck ultrasound mapping is crucial, and complete dissection of a nodal compartment is recommended for any metastatic lymph nodes. The role of prophylactic central neck dissection remains controversial. The BRAF V600E mutation is a common mutation in papillary thyroid cancer, and has been associated with more aggressive tumor behavior. Evaluating the BRAF status of tumors may have implications for treatment and surveillance. New areas of research continue to focus on risk stratification and identifying which patients benefit from a more aggressive treatment, such as prophylactic central lymphadenectomy and radioiodine ablation and more intense surveillance strategies.