Abstract:Thyroid cancer in children and adolescents (referred to as "pediatric thyroid cancer" ) generally refers to thyroid malignant tumors occurred in subjects younger than 18 years of age. Although thyroid cancer is less common in childhood and adolescence, the incidence of pediatric thyroid cancer has been rising with the global increase of thyroid cancer in recent years. Although the clinical and pathological characteristics, and prognosis of pediatric thyroid cancer are different from those of adult patients, the current clinical management for pediatric thyroid cancer is mostly based on strategies for adult patients. Insufficient understanding of pediatric thyroid cancer can lead to undertreatment or overtreatment, which leads to negative impacts on the development of physiological, psychological and social ability in children. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop a standardized diagnosis and treatment schemes for pediatric thyroid cancer. Here we review epidemiology, clinical characteristics, management strategies, and present challenges of pediatric thyroid cancer based on the clinical studies and guidelines or consensus for pediatric thyroid cancer.
