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Use of tracheal stenting in the palliation of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: tertiary centre experience

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 May 2015

K Varadharajan ,
R Mathew ,
B Odutoye ,
P Williamson  and
B Madden
K Varadharajan*
Affiliation:
Department of ENT Surgery, West Middlesex University Hospital, London, UK
R Mathew
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, St George's Hospital, London, UK
B Odutoye
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, St George's Hospital, London, UK
P Williamson
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, St George's Hospital, London, UK
B Madden
Affiliation:
Department of Cardiothoracics and Intensive Care, St George's Hospital, London, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Mr Kiran Varadharajan, Department of ENT Surgery, West Middlesex University Hospital, Twickenham Road, Isleworth, London TW7 6AF, UK Fax: 0208 321 5906 E-mail: kiranvarad@doctors.org.uk
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Abstract

Background:

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is rare but carries a poor prognosis. Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma leads to tracheal compression, airway compromise and eventually death. Airway compromise, a particularly distressing symptom, can be palliated with tracheal stenting.

Method:

A retrospective case note analysis was conducted of patients diagnosed with anaplastic thyroid carcinoma between July 2003 and July 2013.

Results:

Twelve patients with anaplastic thyroid carcinoma were identified. Four patients underwent palliative tracheal stenting. Three patients had no dyspnoea at the time of stenting. Two stented patients subsequently developed dyspnoea secondary to stent migration; this was managed successfully with stent exchange. The other stented patient remained asymptomatic with regards to dyspnoea. All non-stented patients died with or from airway compromise.

Conclusion:

Tracheal stenting is a relatively safe and effective method for palliation of distressing airway symptoms in patients with anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. Early prophylactic tracheal stenting in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma may be an effective option to prevent development of airway compromise as the disease progresses.

Keywords

Thyroid NeoplasmsAnaplastic Thyroid CancerAirway ObstructionPalliative CareStent
Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 129 , Issue 6 , June 2015 , pp. 568 - 571
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2015 

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