ABSTRACT
Radioactive iodine, which is the cornerstone in the adjuvant treatment of thyroid cancer, has been used for the past seven decades. It has a key role in improving disease-free survival, detection and therapy of metastatic disease and improving the accuracy of follow-up assessment of patients. Managing clinicians should be aware of the issues surrounding the use of radioactive iodine to wield this potent weapon in the fight against thyroid cancer.
This chapter reviews the current literature regarding use of radioactive iodine in the adjuvant and follow-up setting. It covers risk stratification of post-thyroidectomy patients, including dose selection. Practical aspects in the use of radioiodine in the Asian setting and its side effects are discussed. The follow-up management of these patients is also elaborated, with emphasis on the use of thyroglobulin assays, ultrasonography and [ 18 F] fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT in this setting. Last, we have a brief review of the current developments in management of radioiodine refractory disease.
