Study on Changes in Immune Function After Microwave Ablation of Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) contributes significantly to thyroid cancer incidence.
• The impact of microwave ablation (MWA) on patient immunity remains unexplored.
• This study investigates MWA's effects on the immune system in PTMC patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the influence of MWA treatment on immune function in patients diagnosed with PTMC.
• To assess changes in T lymphocyte subsets and cytokine levels post-MWA therapy.

Main Methods:

• Fifty PTMC patients undergoing ultrasound-guided MWA were enrolled.
• Immune function was assessed by analyzing T lymphocyte subsets and T helper cell-secreted cytokines.
• Measurements were taken before MWA, 1 day/2 weeks post-MWA, and 1 month post-MWA.

Main Results:

• A significant temporary increase in CD3+, CD4+, and CD4+/CD8+ T lymphocytes and IL-2, IFN-γ was observed 1 day and 2 weeks post-MWA (P<0.05).
• No significant changes were noted in CD8+ T lymphocytes, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, or IL-17A levels immediately after treatment.
• Immune parameters returned to baseline levels one month after MWA treatment.

Conclusions:

• MWA treatment temporarily enhances immune function in PTMC patients.
• This transient immune modulation may be clinically significant for enhancing anti-PTMC capabilities.