Overview on the use of recombinant humanized thyroid stimulating hormone (rhTSH) in the treatment and follow-up of patients with thyroid cancer

1898 Learning Objectives 1. To provide an overview of the use of recombinant human thyrotropin (rhTSH) in the radioiodine (RI) treatment of the differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). 2. To evaluate the impact of rhTSH in significant parameters, such as quality of life, length of hospitalization, etc., comparing to thyroid hormone withdrawal (THW). 3. To demonstrate the role of rhTSH in the follow-up of DTC patients. DTC Patients are usually treated with near-total or total thyroidectomy, followed (when needed) by RI treatment. Traditionally, patients are prepared with THW. The use of rhTSH is established in the diagnostic surveillance of previously treated thyroid cancer, while the last decade, the use of rhTSH has also been approved for RI treatment. The objective of this educational exhibit is to present an extensive review regarding the utility of rhTSH in the management of DTC patients and to increase the physicians confidence in this method.