Metastatic Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: Current Situation and Outlook

Introduction: Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare thyroid cancer, accounting for 1-2% of cases. While localized MTC has a good prognosis, metastatic MTC presents significant treatment challenges. This study explores diagnostic approaches, treatment options, and future perspectives for managing metastatic MTC. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 7 patients with metastatic MTC diagnosed between 2020 and 2024 at the Mohammed VI University Hospital. Diagnosis was confirmed through elevated calcitonin levels and histopathology. Imaging and biopsies identified metastases. Treatments included surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Results: The mean age of patients was 52 years, with lymph node (71.4%) and lung (71.4%) metastases being most common. Treatment involved surgery, with adjuvant therapies in select cases. Two recurrences were noted. Discussion: MTC is primarily sporadic but can be familial, often linked to MEN syndromes. Early diagnosis is based on elevated calcitonin and imaging. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy show promise but face challenges like resistance. Precision medicine offers future potential for personalized treatment. Conclusion: Metastatic MTC remains difficult to treat, but targeted therapies and emerging treatments like immunotherapy and precision medicine offer hope for better outcomes.