Indications of external beams radiation for thyroid cancer.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The use of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) for the treatment of the different histologic subtypes of thyroid cancer is a matter of debate. This article provides an up-to-date review on the current evidence concerning the benefits of EBRT in thyroid cancer in specific indications.

RECENT FINDINGS: Based on retrospective studies, adjuvant EBRT lessens the risk of locoregional recurrence in locally advanced differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) and medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) with high-risk features. The effect of EBRT on overall survival remains uncertain. EBRT should also be part of the multimodality treatment in anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), as it improves survival rates in incompletely resected ATC.

SUMMARY: The role of EBRT in thyroid cancer remains unclear. To date, no randomized control studies are available. Retrospective data showed improved outcomes in patients with high-risk features for locoregional recurrence.