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Updated: Dec 18, 2025

Computer-Aided Three-Dimensional Visualization in the Treatment of Locally Advanced Thyroid Cancer
Published on: June 9, 2023
New Therapies for Advanced Thyroid Cancer
Diprajan Laha1, Naris Nilubol1, Myriem Boufraqech1
1Surgical Oncology Program, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.
Abstract:
Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine cancer. The discovery of new biomarkers for thyroid cancer has significantly improved the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of thyroid cancer, thus allowing more personalized treatments for patients with thyroid cancer. Most of the recently discovered targeted therapies inhibit the known oncogenic mechanisms in thyroid cancer initiation and progression such as MAPK pathway, PI3K/Akt-mTOR pathways, or VEGF. Despite the significant advances in molecular testing and the discoveries of new and promising therapeutics, effective treatments for advanced and metastatic, iodine-refractory thyroid cancer are still lacking. Here, we aim to summarize the current understanding of the genetic alterations and the dysregulated pathways in thyroid cancer and to discuss the most recent targeted therapies and immunotherapy for advanced thyroid cancer with a promising anti-tumor activity and clinical benefit.
Insights
Thyroid cancer, the most common endocrine cancer, benefits from new biomarkers and targeted therapies. However, advanced, metastatic, iodine-refractory cases still need better treatments.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy.
- Advances in molecular pathogenesis have enabled personalized treatments.
- Targeted therapies often target oncogenic pathways like MAPK, PI3K/Akt-mTOR, and VEGF.
Observation:
- Despite progress, effective treatments for advanced, metastatic, iodine-refractory thyroid cancer remain limited.
- Genetic alterations and dysregulated pathways are key to understanding thyroid cancer.
- New therapeutic strategies are emerging for difficult-to-treat thyroid cancer.
Findings:
- This review summarizes current knowledge on genetic alterations and dysregulated pathways in thyroid cancer.
- It discusses recent targeted therapies and immunotherapies showing promise for advanced disease.
- Promising anti-tumor activity and clinical benefits are observed with novel treatments.
Implications:
- Understanding molecular pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective thyroid cancer therapies.
- Targeted therapies and immunotherapy offer new hope for patients with advanced, refractory thyroid cancer.
- Continued research into genetic drivers and therapeutic targets will improve patient outcomes.
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