OPTIMIZATION OF THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF RECURRENT FORMS OF THYROID CANCER

Abstract

Recurrent thyroid cancer remains a significant clinical challenge despite substantial advances in surgical techniques, molecular diagnostics, and targeted therapies. Although differentiated thyroid carcinoma generally demonstrates favorable long-term survival, disease recurrence may occur years after initial treatment, leading to increased morbidity and healthcare costs. Early identification of recurrent lesions and the selection of individualized treatment strategies are essential for improving patient outcomes. Modern diagnostic approaches, including high-resolution ultrasonography, serum thyroglobulin monitoring, cross-sectional imaging, positron emission tomography, and molecular genetic testing, have enhanced the detection of recurrent disease at earlier stages. Simultaneously, minimally invasive surgical procedures, radioactive iodine therapy, external beam radiotherapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immunologically targeted treatments have expanded therapeutic possibilities for patients with recurrent tumors. This review discusses current strategies for optimizing the diagnosis and management of recurrent thyroid cancer and highlights the importance of multidisciplinary decisionmaking, personalized medicine, and continuous postoperative surveillance. The integration of advanced imaging technologies with molecular profiling is expected to improve recurrence detection and facilitate more effective treatment planning in future clinical practice