Study of Active Surveillance versus Immediate Surgery for Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma with Nodules 2.0 cm or Smaller

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to better understand the outcomes of active surveillance, which means careful observation without immediate surgery, for patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma PTMC. PTMC is a type of thyroid cancer involving nodules 1.5 cm or smaller. The study focuses on monitoring disease progression over 3, 5, and 10 years and compares quality of life and anxiety between patients who choose active surveillance and those who opt for immediate surgery. Participants in the active surveillance group will be closely monitored every six months until their disease remains stable for two years, after which monitoring occurs annually. Those who choose immediate surgery can join a sub-study that evaluates quality of life and anxiety but do not receive any additional intervention as surgery is the standard care. Participants can switch to surgery at any time if they and their doctors decide it is best. Throughout the study, patients will undergo regular assessments including ultrasound imaging to track tumor size and disease progression. Researchers will gather data on genetic and clinical factors that may affect progression, as well as quality of life and anxiety scores. The study may last up to 10 years, with close follow-up to measure the rate of disease progression and the impact of different management choices.

Active Surveillance of Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma