Thyroid cancer in Iraq: report on 358 cases

ABSTRACT

358 cases of malignant tumours of the thyroid gland were referred to our institute in the 10 year period 1969-1979. The role of iodine deficiency in the aetiology of carcinoma of the thyroid is discussed. The distribution of the different histological types of carcinoma of the thyroid is presented. The prognosis of cases of differentiated thyroid cancer is worse than that reported in the literature because of the advanced state on first presentation of the patients and the inadequate follow up after the diagnosis and initial treatment is done. The value of 1-131- studies and therapy after surgery is discussed