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Molecular Testing in Thyroid Cancer

Molecular classification of thyroid nodules and targeted therapy.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Molecular Testing in Thyroid Cancer?

Molecular testing in thyroid cancer is used to reduce unnecessary surgery rates in nodules with indeterminate FNAB results (Bethesda III-IV) and to plan targeted therapy in advanced cancers.

Diagnostic panels such as ThyroSeq v3, Afirma GSC, and ThyGeNEXT/ThyraMIR aid in benign/malignant differentiation with 'rule-out' or 'rule-in' approaches. The BRAF V600E mutation is found in 50-60% of papillary thyroid cancers and is associated with aggressive course.

In radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer, BRAF, RAS, and RET fusion mutations determine the selection of targeted therapies (lenvatinib, sorafenib, selpercatinib, dabrafenib+trametinib).

Symptoms

Bethesda III-IV cytological result (indeterminate cytology)
Thyroid cancer unresponsive to radioiodine therapy
Advanced or metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer
RET mutation investigation in medullary thyroid cancer

Risk Factors

Family history of thyroid cancer
Radiation exposure
BRAF V600E mutation (marker of aggressive course)
RET mutations (medullary thyroid cancer)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If FNAB result is Bethesda III or IV
  • If there is no response to RAI therapy in thyroid cancer
  • If medullary thyroid cancer is diagnosed (RET testing)
  • If targeted therapy is being planned for aggressive thyroid cancer

Treatment Methods

01
Bethesda III-IV: Guiding surgical decision with molecular testing
02
BRAF positive PTC: Aggressive approach considered
03
RAI refractory DTC: Lenvatinib or sorafenib (tyrosine kinase inhibitors)
04
RET fusion positive: Selpercatinib or pralsetinib
05
BRAF V600E mutant DTC: Dabrafenib + trametinib
06
Medullary thyroid cancer (RET mutant): Selpercatinib, vandetanib, cabozantinib

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.