Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine malignancy in children and adolescents. Although the basis of the thyroid cancer management in children is the same as those of the adults, thyroid cancer may behave different in pediatric population than adults. Unlike adults, children usually present with more advanced disease and the risk of recurrence and metastases are higher. However, the prognosis and survival of pediatric thyroid cancer is better than those of adults. This chapter will review the frequency, epidemiology, and clinical behavior of pediatric thyroid cancer with emphasis on the appropriate management in nuclear medicine.
Part of the book: Thyroid Cancer