[Hyperthyroidism in thyroid cancer. Retrospective study of 53 cases]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Oncology
• Nuclear Medicine

Background:

• Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland.
• Thyroid carcinoma, or thyroid cancer, involves the abnormal growth of cells in the thyroid gland.
• The co-occurrence of hyperthyroidism and thyroid carcinoma presents diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

• This study examined 273 thyroid carcinoma patients, diagnosing hyperthyroidism in 53 (19.5%) at initial examination.
• Hyperthyroidism and thyroid carcinoma were distinct in 24 patients (Graves' disease, Plummer's disease with separate nodules).
• In 29 patients, hyperthyroidism and carcinoma were linked, often within a solitary toxic adenoma where the hot nodule was malignant.

Findings:

• Malignant hot nodules within toxic adenomas were identified in 29 patients (55% of hyperthyroid cases).
• Histological confirmation of malignancy in the hot nodule was achieved in 10 of 24 cases.
• Malignant hot tumors are estimated to occur in 1 out of every 50 benign toxic adenomas.

Implications:

• Early identification of malignant hot nodules is crucial for effective thyroid cancer treatment.
• Clinical criteria like rapid nodule growth, large size (>5 cm or >35g), and specific T3 levels aid differentiation.
• Further research is needed to refine diagnostic strategies for co-existing hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer.