What is a common treatment for thyroid cancer that utilizes a radioactive isotope?

I-131 therapy is a common treatment for thyroid cancer that utilizes the radioactive isotope iodine-131. This treatment takes advantage of the thyroid gland’s unique ability to absorb iodine. In thyroid cancers, especially in cases of differentiated thyroid cancer such as papillary and follicular types, I-131 is administered post-surgery to eliminate any remaining malignant thyroid tissue or metastases.

Once administered, the iodine-131 emits beta radiation that specifically destroys the cancerous cells. This targeted approach is highly effective due to the thyroid’s uptake of iodine, which allows for a localized treatment while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Patients often receive this therapy after a total thyroidectomy or when there is a risk of cancer recurrence.

I-131 therapy's efficacy and safety profile make it a standard care practice in the management of thyroid cancer, particularly as part of a long-term follow-up strategy. Other treatment options, although valuable in certain contexts, do not utilize radioactive isotopes specifically for treating thyroid cancer.