THERAPY OF THE METASTASIZING ADENOCARCINOMA OF THE THYROID-GLAND USING I-131 - EXPERIENCES WITH 103 PATIENTS FROM 1963 TO 1977

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 155  (4) , 223-229
Abstract
Results of 131I therapy in 103 patients with metastatic thyroid cancer are analyzed. Therapy included the elimination of the thyroid or residual thyroid in case of previous surgery by application of about 80 mCi of 131I and hormone substitution. About 2 mo. later, the hormone substitution was stopped, exogenous thyrotropin was given and 150-300 mCi of 131I were given. Two days later, the thyroid medication was reinstituted, and 1 wk later, the patient was studied by scintigraphy and other measures. In case of an I-metabolizing tumorous tissue, further 131I applications were given. In the patients with distant metastases, the 10 yr survival rate is about 22%. Small masses of papillary cancer can be eradicated in the majority by means of 131I, whereas large tumor masses (several 100 g) can not be eliminated by 131I. In well-differentiated follicular cancer, the recovery rate obtained by 131I is lower than in papillary cancer. Manifestations of follicular cancer with anaplastic parts, or follicular cancer with eosinophilic cells or Hurthle-cell cancers could not be eradicated by 13I. Treatment-induced mortality is 2-3% and is acceptable in view of the recovery rate and the serious nature of the disease.

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