[Metastases to thyroid--forgotten clinical dilemma].

Abstract

Despite of a rich blood supply the thyroid is uncommon site of metastatic disease. In the era of ever-increasing availability of modem imaging has seen a steady increase in the detection of metastases to the thyroid. It is estimated that in clinical trials approximately 2-3% of malignant tumors involving the thyroid gland are metastases, while in their autopsy detection rate is up to 8 times greater. The most frequent location of primary focus are kidney, breast, lung and gastrointestinal tract. Any nodular changes in the thyroid detected in a patient with a history of cancer should be suspected metastatic changes. The prognosis of metastases to the thyroid gland is in most cases adverse and uncertain, however aggressive surgical treatment can prolong patient life.