Active surveillance for low-risk papillary microcarcinomas.

What is it about?

Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) has an excellent prognosis with a mortality of less than 1% even with the presence of distant metastases. Active surveillance is a reasonable management approach for appropriately selected patients. Patients should be thoroughly oriented about the risks and benefits of active surveillance vs immediate surgical treatment.

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Why is it important?

The incidence of thyroid carcinomas is increasing. Recent data shows that invasive surgery is not the only option for low risk thyroid carcinomas. Active surveillance has demonstrated to be an effective and safety approach. A discussion with the patient should include the sequelae of surgery and potential impact on quality of life, especially in the younger population.

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