Thyroid Cancer Group Research Articles

Vitamin D deficiency and thyroid cancer: is there a true association? A prospective observational study.

Literature data indicate a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and thyroid cancer (TC). We conducted this observational study to test this hypothesis. We studied 327 consecutive thyroidectomy cases, and compared patients with TC and those who had benign thyroid disease (BTD). In total, 183 cases with well-differentiated TC (group B) were compared with 144 cases of BTD (group A). We defined 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)VitD) values <10ng/ml as severe vitamin D deficiency (15.4%), 10-30ng/ml as inadequacy (70.4%) and >30ng/ml as adequate (14.2%). We further used a cut-off point of 30ng/ml (used in a recent meta-analysis) to classify patients as vitamin D deficient or not. There was no statistically significant difference in the following: age, size of the thyroid gland, preoperative calcium levels, preoperative parathormone and vitamin D levels, body mass index and anti-thyroid antibodies. Only thyroid-stimulating hormone and weight of the thyroid gland were found to differ. There was no significant difference in mean vitamin D levels (group A = 19.82ng/ml [sd 9.59] vs group B = 19.69ng/ml [sd 11.34]; p = 0.917). The same was found when we compared the two groups according to the three categories of vitamin D values (deficiency, inadequacy, adequacy; p = 0.485) and when we performed the analysis based on all threshold levels (10, 20 and 30ng/ml; p = 0.328). Using various statistical methods, no correlation was found between vitamin D deficiency and differentiated TC (overall, microcarcinomas, macrocarcinomas). Based on our results, no correlation between vitamin D deficiency and TC was confirmed, contradicting and questioning the results of two recent meta-analyses.

Risk of second primary thyroid cancer in cancer survivors

A risk factor for thyroid cancer (TC) may be a history of former cancer and cancer therapy. The precise risk of a second primary thyroid carcinoma has not yet been revealed. In this study, we evaluated standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) of second primary thyroid cancer (SPTC) with consideration of different conditions and further analyzed the clinicopathological characteristics and survival of these patients. The cohort was selected from the US Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program between 1975 and 2019. The standardized incidence ratios, morbidity risk, clinicopathological features, and survival of second primary thyroid carcinoma were analyzed. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to balance covariates. Kaplan–Meier method was performed to assess the survival outcomes. Overall, 7066 patients with SPTC and 83,113 patients with primary TC were identified. The SIR of TC in tumor patients was 1.51/10,000, statistically higher than the natural population (0.94/10,000, P < 0.05). The most significant tumors contributing to the increased SIRs of SPTC were acute lymphocytic leukemia (3.49/10,000), Hodgkin’s lymphoma-nodal (3.29/10,000), salivary gland cancer (3.23/10,000), and kidney and renal pelvis cancer (3.05/10,000). The incidence of TC increased significantly in tumor patients who received radiotherapy/chemotherapy before age 35. The age at diagnosis of the SPTC was much older than the primary TC (64.01 vs. 49.55 years, p < 0.001). The SPTC had a higher percentage of histological grades 3/4 (23.14% vs. 15.19%, p < 0.001). Survival analyses demonstrated a worse prognosis for the SPTC group compared to the primary TC group. But after PSM, the survival outcomes of the two groups tended to be equivalent (P = 0.584). The SIRs of TC are higher in tumor patients. The most significant factors contributing to the increased risk of SPTC were some specific former tumors and acceptance of radiotherapy/ chemotherapy before age 35. There was no significant difference in survival between SPTC and primary TC.

Changes of Serum Midkine as a Dynamic Prognostic Factor in Detection for Thyroid Cancer and Comparison with Fine-Needle Aspiration

Background: Midkine plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of malignant and other diseases since it is involved in a number of physiological processes, including development, reproduction, and repair. Different types of cells express this protein. Thus, in healthy conditions, significant MDK expression is observed in lymphocytes, the epidermis, and the bronchial epithelium. The sample obtained during fine needle aspiration can help in the diagnosis of or rule out disorders like cancer. Blood is the most practical and least likely bodily fluid to pollute while diagnosing illnesses. Finding successful prognostic markers in patients with well-defined thyroid cancer was the goal of the current investigation.Methods: Midkine level was measured in serum samples by using Elisa technique for 80 patients (40 patient was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma and another 40 with benign thyroid goiter), Age (25-55) from Iraqis people.Results: The current study revealed highly significant difference the median serum level of medkine in the TC patients was much higher than that of BTT patients with a highly significant difference The sensitivity and specificity of the test at cut off value of medkine=129 pg/ml were 90% for both. While FNA result, the sensitivity and specificity of FNAC was 80.77% and 89.66% respectively.Conclusions: The thyroid cancer group's serum MDK result was noticeably higher than that of the healthy control groups. proposed that the midkine might serve as a biochemical marker for thyroid cancer early identification and diagnosis.Keywords: Thyroid cancer; Papillary thyroid carcinoma; Midkine; ELISA; FNA

The Not-So-Good Cancer: Psychosocial Challenges for YA Thyroid Cancer Patients and Survivors and the Creation of a YA Thyroid Cancer Support Group.

Thyroid cancer (TC) has been deemed "the good cancer" owing to its slow growth, availability of targeted treatment, and low mortality rates. Inconsistent with this name, survivors of TC have similar or poorer quality of life than individuals with other types of cancer. Furthermore, young adults (YAs; age 18-35) with TC are at risk for additional psychosocial challenges. Support groups have been identified as a mechanism for improving quality of life among other YAs with cancer. A YA TC group is warranted given the unique experiences of TC survivors. Discussion points from a newly developed YA TC support group are reviewed.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasound and Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology in Thyroid Malignancy.

Introduction: Thyroid nodule incidence is increasing due to the widespread application of ultrasonography. Fine-needle aspiration cytology is widely applied for the detection of malignancies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of ultrasonography in thyroid cancer. Methods: This retrospective study included patients that underwent total thyroidectomy for benign thyroid disease or well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma from January 2017 to December 2022. The study population was divided into groups: the well-differentiated thyroid cancer group and the control group with benign histopathological reports. Results: In total, 192 patients were enrolled in our study; 159 patients were included in the well-differentiated thyroid cancer group and 33 patients in the control group. Statistical analysis demonstrated that ultrasonographic findings such as microcalcifications (90.4%), hypoechogenicity (89.3%), irregular margins (92.2%) and taller-than-wide shape (90.5%) were correlated to malignancy (p < 0.001). Uni- and multivariate analysis revealed that both US score (OR: 2.177; p < 0.001) and Bethesda System (OR: 1.875; p = 0.002) could predict malignancies. In terms of diagnostic accuracy, the US score displayed higher sensitivity (64.2% vs. 33.3%) and better negative predictive value (34.5% vs. 24.4%) than the Bethesda score, while both scoring systems displayed comparable specificities (90.9% vs. 100%) and positive predictive values (97.1% vs. 100%). Discussion: The malignant potential of thyroid nodules is a crucial subject, leading the decision for surgery. Ultrasonography and fine-needle aspiration cytology are pivotal examinations in the diagnostic process, with ultrasonography demonstrating better negative predictive value.

Abstract LB050: BRAF V600E is associated with the upregulation of CLDN1 in thyroid cancer

Abstract Thyroid carcinoma is the most prevalent endocrine neoplasm. The most recurrent mutation in thyroid cancer (TC) is the V600E substitution in BRAF, which induces the over-activation of the MAPK pathway. The interaction between this pathway and the deregulation of genes that facilitate tumorigenesis such as CLDN1 could be useful for decision-making related to surgical removal and the degree of initial resection; however, there is a lack of information on the association of CLDN1 expression with BRAF V600E. Objective. Evaluate the gene expression of CLDN1 in BRAF-mutated and BRAF-unmutated thyroid nodules. Methods. RT-qPCR was performed to assess BRAF genotyping (rs113488022) and CLDN1 expression in 94 thyroid nodule biopsy samples (TC=48). Clinicopathological data was retrieved to establish further associations. Results. Mutated BRAF thyroid nodules were found to be 7.14 ± 0.293 times more expressed than those without the mutation (p &amp;lt 0.001, N=94). BRAF V600E mutation was identified in patients with TC exclusively. CLDN1 expression was 41.315 ± 0.554 times greater in patients with TC than in those without TC (p &amp;lt 0.001). Heterozygous patients had a change factor of 6.8, whereas mutated homozygotes had a change factor of 7.5 (p &amp;lt 0.001, N=94). CLDN1 mean expression is significantly higher in A allele carriers compared to normal homozygotes (p &amp;lt 0.001). When analyzing just within the TC group, the behavior is maintained, suggesting a potential association between the mutated allele and the expression of these genes. Conclusion. CLDN1 is significantly upregulated in TC patients carrying the BRAF V600E mutation. BRAF V600E is only observed in patients with TC, implying a biological connection between them, which can be explained via MAPK; subsequent studies are needed to confirm the correlations. Citation Format: Andrea Ross Orozco, Eliakym Arámbula Meraz, Anette Roxana Gastelum Quiroz, Fred Luque Ortega, Edith Eunice García Alvarez, Marco Álvarez Arrazola, Karla Lizbeth Morales Hernández, Noemí García Magallanes. BRAF V600E is associated with the upregulation of CLDN1 in thyroid cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 2 (Late-Breaking, Clinical Trial, and Invited Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(7_Suppl):Abstract nr LB050.

Does Radioactive Iodine Treatment Damage the Lacrimal System?

In this prospective study, we aimed to make a quantitative assessment of the lacrimal glands before and after radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment in patients with hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer. The study included 80 eyes of 40 patients. There were 25 patients in group 1 (hyperthyroid group) and 15 patients in group 2 (thyroid cancer group). Group 1 has received low dose ( 131 I) and group 2 high dose ( 131 I). Before, and at the first and sixth month after RAI treatment, all patients underwent ophthalmological examinations, Schirmer tests, TBUT tests, tear osmolarity (TO), and ocular surface examinations. The age and sex characteristics of both groups were similar. Although no significant change was observed in tear film tests before and after treatment in group 1, a significant decrease in Schirmer and TBUT values and a significant increase in TO were observed in group 2 in the first month after treatment. These values returned to normal in the sixth month. Although no Schirmer test was observed lower than 10 mm in any patient before RAI treatment, the Schirmer test was measured 5 to 10 mm in 4 (10%) patients in group 2 in the first month after treatment. Again, in these patients, TBUT was below 10 seconds and TO was greater than 308 mOsm/L. In this study, although no change was observed in tear function tests in patients receiving low doses of RAI, a decrease in tear secretion and an increase in TO were detected in patients receiving high doses in the early period.

Analysis of Thyroid Autoantibodies and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Expression in Patients with Thyroid Diseases in High Iodine Areas of Cangzhou

Objective: To analyze the differences in the expression of thyroid autoantibodies and thyroid-stimulating hormone in people with thyroid disease in the high iodine area of Cangzhou City. Methods A total of 90 patients with thyroid disease from high iodine area of Cangzhou City were enrolled, including 30 patients with hypothyroidism, 30 patients with goiter and 30 patients with thyroid cancer. A total of 30 healthy patients at the same time and in the same region were selected as the control. The subjects were divided into four groups: hypothyroidism group, Goiter group, Thyroid cancer group, and control group. The TSH levels and thyroid autoantibody levels of the four groups were analyzed. Results Compared with the control group, the levels of thyroid autoantibodies in the hypothyroidism, Goiter group and thyroid cancer group were significantly higher (P&amp;lt;0.05), and compared with the control group, the TSH levels in the hypothyroidism group and the thyroid cancer group were higher, and the TSH levels in the Goiter group were lower (P&amp;lt;0.05). Conclusion: Thyroid autoantibodies and thyroid-stimulating hormone are differentially expressed in different types of thyroid diseases in the high iodine area of Cangzhou City, which can be used as reference indicators for the identification and diagnosis of different types of thyroid diseases.

Uni- and Multivariate Analyses of Cancer Risk in Cytologically Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules: A Single-Center Experience.

Every year in Italy, about 60,000 new cases of nodular thyroid pathology are diagnosed, of which almost 30% are cytologically indeterminate (TIR3A/3B). The risk of malignancy reported in the literature on thyroid nodules ranges from 5% to 15% for TIR3A and from 15% to 30% for TIR3B. It is suspected that these percentages are higher in practice. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses of clinical risk factors. The medical records of 291 patients who underwent surgery for cytologically indeterminate nodular thyroid disease were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical parameters and preoperative serum markers were then compared between the benign nodular thyroid disease and thyroid cancer groups. For each patient, clinical characteristics, comorbidities, neck ultrasonographic features, and histological reports were statistically analyzed using Chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests. A total of 134 malignant neoplasms were found (46%), divided into 55 cases (35%) in the TIR3A group and 79 cases (59%) in the TIR3B group. Statistical analysis was not significant in both populations for both sex and age (TIR3A p-value = 0.5097 and p-value = 0.1430, TIR3B p-value = 0.5191 p-value = 0.3384), while it was statistically significant in patients with TIR3A nodules associated with thyroiditis (p-value = 0.0009). In addition, the patients with TIR3A and 3B nodules were stratified by ultrasound risk for the prediction of malignancy and it was significant (p = 0.0004 and p < 0.0001). In light of these results, it emerges that surgical treatment of nodular thyroid pathology with indeterminate cytology TIR3A should always be considered, and surgery for TIR3B is mandatory.

Ultrasound Changes in Salivary Glands after Radioactive Iodine Treatment in Benign Diseases and Differentiated Cancer of Thyroid Glands in Consideration of Dose and Time Dependency.

To assess ultrasound (US) features observed in salivary glands after radioactive iodine treatment (RAIT) in relation to the dose and time interval after RAIT. A retrospective analysis of US findings regarding the salivary glands of patients presenting after RAIT due to thyroid cancer (Group 1, n=99) or benign thyroid diseases (Group 2, n=25). The control group consisted of randomly selected patients (no RAIT, Group 3, n=100). Groups were compared regarding RAIT dose, symptoms, and US findings (duct dilation, hypoechoic/heterogeneous parenchyma, parenchymal loss). The association of the presence of US parameters after RAIT with various dose levels (2000-15000MBq) and time intervals (24, 60, 120 months) and the differences between the groups was evaluated. Significant differences between US parameters were noted when comparing Group 1 with Group 2 or 3. Nothing of relevant significance was noted when Groups 2 and 3 were compared. US features indicating a slight or moderate sialadenitis showed the most significant associations with doses <4000MBq and time intervals <24 months after RAIT. US changes indicating a serious sialadenitis or even gland atrophy showed the most significant association at doses between >7000-9000MBq and when US was performed >60 months after RAIT. Our results point to a dose and time dependency of pathologic US findings in RAIT-induced effects on the major salivary glands. Based on the US findings, a better estimation of the current impact of RAIT on the salivary glands and the further prognosis appears possible.

Association of the Genetic Diversity of Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptor Genes and HLA-C Ligand in Saudi Women With Thyroid Cancer.

Genetic diversity in the killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) gene composition and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I ligands, such as HLA-C, can affect the activity of natural killer cells and determine anti-cancer immunity. Specific KIR-HLA combinations can enhance cancer predisposition by promoting immune evasion. Studying the relationship between KIR-HLA polymorphisms and thyroid cancer (TC) risk can offer insights into how natural immunity fails, leading to disease development. Therefore, we investigated the association between KIR and HLA-C genotypes and TC risk in Saudi women. In this retrospective study, sixteen KIR genotypes and 2 HLA-C allotypes were determined using the polymerase chain reaction-sequence-specific primer (PCR-SSP) method, and the genotypes of 50 Saudi female patients with TC were compared with those of 50 Saudi female healthy controls (HC). We observed a highly significant decrease in the presence of the KIR2DS2 and KIR2DS4 genes (OR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.05-0.41, P = 0.0001; OR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.02-0.2, P = 0.000, respectively) and in the presence of the KIR2DL5A gene (OR = 0.05, 95% CI = 0.02-0.14, P = 0.0000) in the TC group compared to the HC group. The frequency of the HLA-C2C2 allotype was significantly higher in HC compared to patients with TC (P = 0.02). The KIR haplotype group A and AB genotypes revealed a protective effect against TC (P = 0.0003 and P = 0.000, respectively), while the BB genotype showed a risk effect on TC compared to HC. Our results showed significant differences in the KIR gene combinations and KIR-HLA combinations between Saudi female TC patients and HC. These results suggest that the expression of KIR genes and their HLA-C ligands may influence the risk of TC development in Saudi women.

Expression and prognosis analysis of integrin subunit α3 (ITGA3) in papillary thyroid cancer

Integrin subunit α3 (ITGA3) is a member of the integrin family and interacts with extracellular matrix proteins. However, there have been few reports regarding the role of ITGA3 in papillary thyroid cancer. The expression levels of ITGA3 were firstly analyzed by bioinformatics tools and in vitro experiments, followed by evaluating its prognostic significance in papillary thyroid cancer patients using Kaplan-Meier, receiver operating characteristic, and Cox regression analyses. Then, cBioportal and GSCA databases were applied to evaluate genetic alterations of ITGA3. Functional enrichment analysis was conducted and the upstream miRNAs of ITGA3 were determined. The results showed that the ITGA3 mRNA and protein levels were higher in the papillary thyroid cancer group than those in the normal group (all P < 0.05). Moreover, ITGA3 performed well in distinguishing the recurrence-free survival (RFS) status and served as an independent prognostic factor of papillary thyroid cancer patients (P < 0.01). Besides, significant relations between ITGA3 and genetic alterations were observed (FDR <0.01). Functional enrichment analysis indicated ECM-receptor interaction and cell adhesion molecules were the shared regulatory pathways. Moreover, ITGA3 might be the target gene of hsa-miR-3129, hsa-miR-181d, hsa-miR-181b, hsa-miR-199a, and hsa-miR-199b. Of note, the ITGA3 mRNA level was reduced after has-miR-199b-3p/5p was overexpressed. In conclusion, ITGA3 could be a reliable biomarker and have potential value in predicting the RFS status of papillary thyroid cancer patients.

How Radioactive Iodine Treatment Affects the Retina.

Objective The aim of this study was to quantitatively assess the macular and retinal nerve fiber layer thicknesses in patients with hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer undergoing radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy. Study Design This prospective study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and approved by the Bagcilar Training and Research Hospital Clinical Research Ethics Committee. Written informed consent was obtained from the patients following a detailed explanation of the study objectives and protocol. Patient selection was randomized. Patients scheduled for RAI treatment in the Nuclear Medicine Clinic were referred to the ophthalmology clinic, respectively. Patients without additional ocular pathology were included in the study. Methods All patients had received RAI therapy using Iodine-131 for hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer. A complete ophthalmological examination and measurement of macular and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness using optical coherence tomography were performed on all patients before and at the first and sixth months and in first year after RAI treatment. The results were prospectively evaluated. Results The study included 80 eyes of 40 patients. The hyperthyroid group was group 1, and the thyroid cancer group was group 2. There were 25 patients in group 1 and 15 patients in group 2. The mean age was 43.76 ± 11.85 years (range: 22-65 years) in group 1 and 39.87 ± 9.13 years (range: 30-58 years) in group 2. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding age and sex ( p > 0.05). In both groups, no significant difference was found in the macular thickness and retinal nerve fiber layer thicknesses values obtained in both eyes before and after the RAI treatment. Conclusion As a result of our study, we observed that RAI intake did not harm the retinal layer.

Correlation between preoperative platelet parameters and clinicopathological features of differentiated thyroid cancer

Objective:To investigate the correlation between preoperative platelet parameters and the clinicopathological features of differentiated thyroid cancer. Methods:We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients with thyroid tumors admitted to Zhongda Hospital affiliated to Southeast University and healthy adults with normal physical examination results in our hospital from January 2019 to December 2020, and collected their general information and preoperative blood routine data. Patients with undifferentiated thyroid cancer, diabetes, coronary heart disease, hematological diseases, kidney diseases, autoimmune diseases, genetic diseases, infectious diseases, other systemic tumors, hepatitis or cirrhosis, or those taking anticoagulants were excluded. The exclusion criteria for healthy adults were the absence of the above diseases and normal physical examination results. Differences in platelet parameters among the three groups were compared, and the correlation between clinicopathological characteristics of thyroid cancer, accompanying cervical lymph node metastasis, and platelet parameters of patients was analyzed. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the risk factors of thyroid cancer with cervical lymph node metastasis. Results:A total of 117 cases of differentiated thyroid cancer were collected, including 33 males and 84 females, with an average age of （41.64±12.25） years; 46 patients had benign thyroid tumors, including 15 males and 31 females, with an average age of （41.35±12.52） years; 50 healthy adults with normal physical examination results in our hospital during the same period were also included, including 18 males and 32 females, with an average age of（42.02±9.62） years, without underlying diseases. The platelet count of the differentiated thyroid cancer group was higher than that of the benign thyroid tumor group（t=-2.219, P=0.028） and the normal control group（t=2.069, P=0.04）, while the platelet distribution width of the differentiated thyroid cancer group was lower than that of the benign thyroid tumor group（t=2.238, P=0.027） and the normal control group（t=-2.618, P=0.002）. These differences were statistically significant. Preoperative age ≤45 years（χ²=4.225, P=0.04）, tumor diameter>1 cm（χ²=4.415, P=0.036）, PLT（t=-4.018, P<0.01） increase, and PDW（t=4.568, P<0.01） decrease were significantly correlated with cervical lymph node metastasis of thyroid cancer and had statistical significance. Univariate analysis showed that age ≤45 years（OR=0.447, 95%CI 0.206-0.970, P=0.042）, tumor diameter>1 cm（OR=2.3, 95%CI 1.050-5.039, P=0.037）, PLT（OR=1.012, 95%CI 1.005-1.019, P=0.001）, and PDW（OR=0.693, 95%CI 0.518-0.827, P<0.01） were risk factors for cervical lymph node metastasis of thyroid cancer. The results of multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that PLT（OR=1.008, 95%CI 1.001-1.016, P=0.026） and PDW（OR=0.692, 95%CI 0.564-0.848, P<0.01） were independent risk factors for thyroid cancer with cervical lymph node metastasis. Conclusion:PLT and PDW may be useful predictive factors for the differentiation of thyroid cancer malignancy and central lymph node metastasis.

Construction and validation of a PANoptosis-related lncRNA signature for predicting prognosis and targeted drug response in thyroid cancer.

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most prevalent malignancy of the endocrine system. PANoptosis, a newly discovered cell death pathway, is of interest in tumor research. However, the relationship between PANoptosis-related lncRNAs (PRlncRNAs) and TC remains unclear. The study aimed to develop a prognostic model based on PRlncRNAs in TC. Gene expression data of PANoptosis-associated genes and clinical information on TC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis, univariate/multivariate Cox analysis, and Lasso Cox regression analysis. A PRlncRNA signature was constructed and used to develop a nomogram to predict overall survival (OS). We further explored the correlation between the risk score and tumor immune microenvironment, immune checkpoints, and drug sensitivity. Moreover, we verified the expression and biological function of lncRNAs in TC cell lines. Finally, seven PRlncRNAs were used to construct a prognostic model for predicting the OS of TC patients. We found that the risk score was associated with the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the expression of critical immune checkpoints. In addition, we screened for drugs that high- or low-risk TC groups might be sensitive to. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) results showed differential expression of four PRlncRNAs (GAPLINC, IDI2-AS1, LINC02154, and RBPMS-AS1) between tumor and normal tissues. Besides, a GEO database (GSE33630) was used to verify the expression differences of PRLncRNAs in THCA tissues and normal tissues. Finally, RBPMS-AS1 was found to inhibit the proliferation and migration of TC cells. In conclusion, we developed a PANoptosis-related lncRNA prognostic risk model that offers a comprehensive understanding of TME status in patients with TC and establishes a foundation for the choice of sensitive medications and immunotherapy.

No increase in translocated chromosomal aberrations, an indicator of ionizing radiation exposure, in childhood thyroid cancer in Fukushima Prefecture

To investigate the effects of radiation exposure due to the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident, following the disaster Fukushima Prefecture launched thyroid ultrasound examinations of residents who were generally younger than 18 years at the time of the earthquake. As the rate of pediatric thyroid cancer was higher than expected, we conducted biological dose assessment based on the frequency of translocated chromosome (Tr) aberrations using peripheral blood lymphocytes. Tr formation frequency was compared among the thyroid cancer (n = 38, median age 18 years, age range 12–26 years), thyroid-related disease (n = 30, median age 21 years, age range 15–28 years), and healthy controls (n = 31, median age 22 years, age range 20–23 years) groups. Tr aberration frequency was initially significantly higher in the thyroid cancer than in the other two groups; however, differences among the groups disappeared after adjusting for history of CT scan, as 92%, 67%, and 28% of those in the thyroid cancer, thyroid-related disease, and control groups, respectively, had undergone CT previously. Therefore, the significant difference in the initial number of Tr formations is presumably due to radiation exposure from CT. Accordingly, the effects of medical exposure on the chromosomes of children and adolescents should be noted.

Pregnancy outcomes and neonatal thyroid function in women with thyroid cancer: a retrospective study

BackgroundEvidence regarding adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with thyroid cancer has been conflicting, and the effect of thyroid dysfunction caused by thyroid hormone suppression therapy in terms of neonatal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether thyroid cancer was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and had an adverse effect on neonatal thyroid function.MethodsThis was a retrospective study of 212 singleton pregnancies with thyroid cancer and 35,641 controls without thyroid cancer. Data on maternal pregnancy outcomes and neonatal outcomes were analyzed.ResultsThe median TSH level in the thyroid cancer group was significantly lower than that in the control group (0.87 µIU/mL vs. 1.17 µIU/mL; P < 0.001), while the FT4 level was higher than that in the control group (17.16 pmol/L vs. 16.33 pmol/L; P < 0.001). The percentage of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) positive in the thyroid cancer group was significantly higher than that in the control group (25.0% vs. 11.8%; P < 0.001). Pregnancies with thyroid cancer had a higher risk of late miscarriage (OR 7.166, 95% CI: 1.521, 33.775, P = 0.013), after adjusting maternal TPOAb positive, there was no statistical significance (OR 3.480, 95% CI: 0.423, 28.614, P = 0.246). Pregnancies with thyroid cancer had higher gestational weight gain (GWG) (14.0 kg vs. 13.0 kg, P < 0.001). Although there was no significant difference in the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) (20.8% vs. 17.4%, P = 0.194), the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) showed that fasting plasma glucose and 2-hour value in the thyroid cancer group were higher than those in the control group (P = 0.020 and 0.004, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference in TSH between the thyroid cancer group and the control group, regardless of full-term newborns or preterm newborns.ConclusionsThyroid cancer might not have substantial adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes except for excessive GWG. No adverse effect on neonatal TSH was found, but the effect on long-term thyroid function and neuropsychological function in offspring need further study.Trial registrationBeijing Birth Cohort Study (ChiCTR220058395).

Relationship between Changes in Blood Glucose and Blood Lipid Levels and the Risk of Thyroid Cancer in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

To investigate the relationship between changes in blood glucose and blood lipid levels and the risk of thyroid cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A total of 159 patients with type 2 diabetes who were treated in our hospital between June 2018 and February 2021 were recruited and assigned into the observation group, including 136 patients with type 2 diabetes without thyroid cancer (nonthyroid cancer group) and 23 patients with type 2 diabetes complicated with thyroid cancer (thyroid cancer group), and 120 healthy subjects during the same period were selected as the control group. Glycated hemoglobin (HbAlc), total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were detected and compared. Pearson's method was conducted to analyze the correlation between serum HbAlc level and TC, TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus; multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the influencing factors of thyroid cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The serum HbAlc level and the incidence of thyroid cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The levels of TC, TG, and LDL-C in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group, and the level of HDL-C was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05). The correlation analysis showed that serum HbAlc levels in patients with type 2 diabetes were positively correlated with TC and TG levels and negatively correlated with HDL-C levels (P < 0.05) and not correlated with LDL-C levels (P > 0.05). Compared with the type 2 diabetes patients without thyroid cancer, the serum HbAlc, TC, and TG levels of the patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the thyroid cancer group were significantly higher, and the levels of HDL-C were significantly lower (P < 0.05). There was no significant change in the level of LDL-C (P > 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that serum HbAlc, TC, and TC levels were all risk factors for thyroid cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (P < 0.05), while serum HDL-C level was a protective factor for thyroid cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (P < 0.05). Thyroid cancer in type 2 diabetes patients may be linked to elevated levels of blood HbAlc, TC, and TG. HbAlc may raise the risk of thyroid cancer in type 2 diabetes patients by modulating blood lipid levels, which might serve as a marker to assess the risk of thyroid cancer in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. However, since this study did not conduct in vitro and in vivo experiments, how HbAlc affects the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer has not been described in this study, which is also our future research direction. It is expected to provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of thyroid cancer.

Infertility and Pregnancy Rates in Female Thyroid Cancer Survivors: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using Health Care Administrative Data from Israel.

Background: Thyroid cancer (TC) is one of the most common carcinomas in young women. Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of the disease and its treatment on reproductive function. The aim of the study was to investigate the association of TC diagnosis and radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment on infertility and pregnancy rates in women. Methods: The comprehensive computerized database of a health management organization in Israel was screened for all female patients who were diagnosed with TC at age ≤40 years in 2000-2020. Rates of infertility (based on a documented diagnosis or purchase of fertility medications in the patient files) and pregnancy were compared with healthy age-matched controls. Results: The cohort included 1164 patients with TC (median age at diagnosis 31.6 years; interquartile range [IQR]: 26.7-35.4) and 5030 controls, followed for a median period of 10 years (IQR: 5.0-15.0). The infertility rate was higher in the TC group than in the control group (23.9% vs. 20.4%, p = 0.008). Still, the postdiagnosis/referent date pregnancy rates were comparable in the whole cohort (46.9/47.7%, p = 0.625) and across all age quartiles. The median time to the first pregnancy postdiagnosis/referent date was longer in TC patients than in controls (37 vs. 31 months, p < 0.001). Within the TC group, women who received repeated radioactive iodine treatment (n = 611, 52.5%) had comparable rates of infertility and pregnancy as those who did not. However, their time to the first postdiagnosis pregnancy was longer (median 45 vs. 29 months, p = 0.020). Conclusions: Our study provides reassuring evidence about the reproductive characteristics of women treated for TC. Pregnancy rates in TC survivors were comparable with controls. However, a higher infertility rate and a longer time to conceive were observed in the TC group compared with the control group. These findings were consistent in women who received single or repeated RAI treatments.

A biomarker and molecular mechanism investigation for thyroid cancer.

This study aimed to reveal the potential molecular mechanism associated with thyroid cancer (THCA) prognosis, and investigate promising biomarkers for THCA. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were compared between THCA samples (THCA group) and normal samples (N group). Then, enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis were performed, followed by prognostic hub gene exploration from the PPI network. Furthermore, the prognostic and mutation analysis was performed on these hub genes. Finally, the associations of the hub gene with immune cells were investigated. A total of 802 DEGs were obtained between the THCA group and the N group. These DEGs were mainly enriched in pathways such as lysine degradation. From the PPI network, 20 hub genes, including CD44, CCND1, SNAI1, and KIT, were investigated. The survival analysis showed that the up-regulation of CD44 and down-regulation of SNAI1 contributed to the favorable and unfavorable outcomes of patients with THCA, respectively. Meanwhile, the diagnostic analysis showed that the AUC of KIT in THCA was larger than 0.9. Furthermore, the gene mutation analysis showed that the alternated CCND1 participated in the cell cycle pathway. Finally, the correlation analysis showed that prognostic genes such as CD44 were positively correlated with immune cells such as M1 macrophages. A total of 20 hub genes including CCND1, CD44, SNAI1, and KIT were revealed as potential biomarkers for the differential diagnosis, prognosis, and development of drug targets of THCA. The lysine degradation pathway and cell cycle pathway might take part in the progression of THCA.