9. Follow-up Protocols: PTC vs. FTC – The Road to Surveillance
Follow-up care post-treatment is a vital aspect of cancer management. Given the differences in the nature and behavior of PTC and FTC, follow-up protocols for these cancers are tailored accordingly.
For PTC, the follow-up generally involves physical examinations, neck ultrasounds, and blood tests to measure thyroglobulin levels (a protein produced by thyroid cells). Since PTC often spreads to neck lymph nodes, a neck ultrasound is an effective tool to detect any recurrent or persistent disease.
In the case of FTC, follow-up is similar to PTC and includes physical examinations, thyroglobulin testing, and neck ultrasounds. However, given FTC’s propensity for hematogenous spread, additional imaging tests like chest X-rays, bone scans, or CT scans might be required to check for possible distant metastasis.
Understanding the appropriate follow-up protocols for each cancer type is key in catching any recurrent or persistent disease at the earliest possible stage. (9)
