Papillary thyroid carcinoma is the most common thyroid cancer, generally with a favorable prognosis. However, not all tumors behave the same. A large international study, published in The Lancet Oncology and involving over 4,700 patients from 10 countries, shows that combining genetic profiling with traditional clinical assessments improves predictions of disease progression.
Researchers focused on mutations in the BRAF and TERT genes, which were linked to more aggressive disease. Patients with both mutations were at higher risk, even if initially considered low-risk. Prof. Carla Colombo of the University of Milan emphasized that genetic insights help tailor treatments, avoid unnecessary procedures, and identify patients requiring closer monitoring.