Genetics Clinical Resource Area - Disease Specific: Thyroid Cancer

Heredity is one of many suggested risk factors for thyroid cancer, although the exact cause is unknown. Medullary thyroid cancer has been linked to alterations in the RET gene, which can be passed on to children, increasing their susceptibility. In papillary thyroid cancer, a connection has been found between family history of noncancerous conditions such as goiters and precancerous colon polyps. The following resources will help to further your understanding of the role of genes in development of thyroid cancer.

The Atlas of Genetics and Cytogenetics in Oncology and Haematology
A peer-reviewed, online journal and database, the Atlas of Genetics and Cytogenetics in Oncology and Haematology provides information on classification, etiology, epidemiology, pathology, and cytogenetics as well as a listing of involved genes for the following diagnoses: Anaplastic (undifferentiated) carcinoma, Oncocytic tumors, and Papillary carcinoma.

Gene Tests - Thyroid Cancer Search
Gene Tests, a website funded by the National Institutes of Health, provides medical genetics information resource developed for healthcare providers. Authoritative information on genetic testing and its use in diagnosis, management, and genetic counseling is provided.

The National Cancer Institute's PDQ^® - Genetics of Thyroid Cancer
The National Cancer Institute's PDQ^® site provides an overview of the disease and associated bibliographic resources.