Thyroid Cancer Mutations

One of the biggest developments in the recent past in the world of thyroid cancer is our understanding of the mutations that drive thyroid cancer. One of the most common mutations is the BRAFv600e mutation.

Because this mutation is so common, it's important to know more about it. It is NOT usually associated with a worse prognosis UNLESS there are other mutations (such as TERT promoter mutations) at the same time. It IS associated with subtypes of thyroid cancer that could be slight more aggressive, however, such as Tall Cell Variant.

Most importantly, there are great drugs that are relatively new and work very well against BRAF+ cancers. If you have an advanced thyroid cancer with a BRAF mutation, we can usually find a therapy that will help you significantly.

HOWEVER- surgery remains the most effective treatment for the vast majority of patients with BRAF mutations. So make sure you consider everything.

Talk to your doctor and make sure you are exploring all the options before you jump to surgery! (and check us out @jonrussellmd on IG for more information like this!)