J Korean Thyroid Assoc.  2012 Nov;5(2):99-103. 10.11106/jkta.2012.5.2.99.

Management of Thyroid Nodules and Cancers Arising in the Elderly

• Kim E
• Choi JY
• Lee KE

• KMID: 2095097
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.11106/jkta.2012.5.2.99

Abstract

As population is rapidly aging, thyroid nodules and cancers arising in the elderly are increasing. However, treatment strategy is not well established in the elderly. With few guidelines, it is important to identify the characteristics of thyroid nodules and cancers in the elderly. Among this population, thyroid nodules and prevalence of multinodular goiter are increasing with advanced age in both male and female. It is not clear age or multinodular goiter is associated with increased risk of malignancy. The incidence of differentiated thyroid carcinoma in the elderly is increasing, particularly in male patients. Moreover, anaplastic carcinoma is more frequent in the elderly. Prognosis is believed to be worse in the elderly. However, surgery for thyroid cancer increases the survival rate and it is safe to perform thyroid surgery in the elderly. Radical surgery is acceptable in the elderly, if their general condition permits surgery.

Keyword

Thyroid nodule; Thyroid neoplasm; Frail elderly

MeSH Terms

Aged
Aging
Carcinoma
Female
Frail Elderly
Goiter
Humans
Incidence
Male
Prevalence
Prognosis
Survival Rate
Thyroid Gland
Thyroid Neoplasms
Thyroid Nodule

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