Fact 6: MTC and its Multimodal Treatment Approach
The treatment of MTC is multifaceted, often involving a combination of surgery, radiation, and targeted therapies. The choice of treatment modality hinges on various factors, including the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and the presence of any RET gene mutations.
Surgery, specifically total thyroidectomy, is the mainstay of treatment for MTC. It involves the complete removal of the thyroid gland, often along with the surrounding lymph nodes. In cases with a known genetic predisposition, this surgery might be performed prophylactically, even before any cancer is detected.
For those with locally advanced or metastatic disease, external beam radiation therapy may be utilized. It targets the cancer cells with high-energy particles, aiming to reduce the tumor size or halt its growth.
Over the past decade, targeted therapies have emerged as a significant player in the treatment of advanced or metastatic MTC. These drugs specifically target cancer cells with RET mutations, blocking the signals that allow these cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. This specific approach signifies the advancement in understanding and managing MTC.
In essence, the management of MTC is a testament to the evolution of medicine and personalized care, combining surgical, radiological, and pharmacological modalities for a comprehensive treatment approach. (6)
