Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Overview and Case Study of a Rare Cancer

BACKGROUND: Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare cancer that has historically been managed by endocrinologists. In 2011, the first of several multi- targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors was approved as treatment for MTC. These drugs have changed the management of MTC to teams that include oncologists and oncology nurses.

OBJECTIVES: This article illustrates MTC diagnostics, surveillance, management of adverse drug reactions, and disease progression through a case study.

METHODS: An overview of MTC is offered, followed by an in-depth case study that examines MTC from the patient's perspective.

FINDINGS: Oncology nurses can influence patient outcomes through the provision of patient education, support, and management of disease and treatment complications.