Differentiated thyroid cancer: A guide to survivorship care

Abstract

Thyroid cancer diagnoses are increasing in Australia. Increased detection and excellent prognosis of differentiated thyroid cancers has led to a growing cohort of patients undergoing post-treatment survivorship care. The aim of this article is to provide anoverview of the principles and modalities of differentiated thyroid cancer survivorship care in adults and present a framework for follow-up within general practice. Surveillance for recurrent disease is an important component of survivorship careand involves clinical assessment, biochemical monitoring of serum thyroglobulin and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies and ultrasonography. Thyroid‑ stimulating hormone suppression is frequently used to reduce the risk of recurrence. Clear communication between the patient's thyroid specialists and their general practitioners is important to plan and monitor effective follow-up.