Locoregional recurrences of papillary thyroid carcinoma: a single-center retrospective study of 6 cases and review of predictive factors

Author: 
Moussaoui Abdeljabbar, Boukhariali, Attifi Hicham and Hmidimounir

Background: Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has an excellent prognosis, but locoregional recurrences pose a significant therapeutic challenge. Identifying predictive factors is crucial for tailored management. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological, clinical, therapeutic, and evolutionary characteristics of locoregional recurrences of PTC and to identify associated risk factors. Materials and Methods: A single-center retrospective study (2010-2021) including 6 patients with a histologically confirmed locoregional recurrence of PTC out of 60 operated cases. Results: The recurrence rate was 10%. The mean age was 56.3 years with a sex ratio of 1. The median time to recurrence was 1 year. Recurrences were primarily lateral nodal (5/6 cases). Frequently identified factors included extrathyroidal extension (4/6), vascular invasion (3/6), and an initial tumor size ≥1cm (4/5 documented cases). Treatment consisted of surgical reintervention (5/6) combined with radioiodine therapy (RAI). The outcome was favorable in 3 cases. Conclusion: Despite an overall good prognosis, a significant proportion of PTC can recur. Complete and appropriate initial surgery, followed by rigorous surveillance based on thyroglobulin and ultrasound, is essential. The presence of risk factors such as ETE, vascular invasion, and large tumors should guide accurate risk stratification and close follow-up.

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DOI: 
http://dx.doi.org/10.24327/ijcar.2025.0536.0084