Theranostic Potentials of Metallic Nanoparticles in Thyroid Diseases: Challenges and Prospects

Thyroid disorders, encompassing benign nodules, goiter, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and malignancies, present significant clinical challenges due to limitations in conventional diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. Metallic nanoparticles, particularly gold and iron-oxide-based systems, have emerged as promising theranostic agents, enabling simultaneous disease diagnosis and targeted therapy. This review examines recent advancements in the application of metallic nanoparticles across the spectrum of thyroid diseases. It highlights their roles in enhancing imaging modalities such as ultrasound, MRI, and CT, as well as their therapeutic potential through photothermal ablation, magnetic hyperthermia, and controlled drug delivery. Comparative analysis of nanoparticle physicochemical properties, targeting strategies, in vitro and in vivo efficacies, and translational feasibility is presented. Furthermore, the review addresses current challenges, including biocompatibility, toxicity, biodistribution, and regulatory considerations. Emerging approaches involving stimuli-responsive nanoparticles and artificial intelligence-driven imaging are discussed as future directions. This comprehensive synthesis underscores the transformative potential of metallic nanoparticle-based theranostics in thyroid disease management, advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration to facilitate clinical translation.