Understanding cognitive function and quality of life after thyroid surgery

Longitudinal Evaluation of Objective Cognitive Function and Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Malignant and Benign Thyroid Nodules

Observational Karolinska University Hospital · NCT05088187

This study looks at how thyroid surgery affects thinking skills and quality of life in patients with different thyroid conditions.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment320 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorKarolinska University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
Trial IDNCT05088187 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess cognitive dysfunction in patients who have undergone thyroid surgery for various conditions, including benign nodules and differentiated thyroid cancer. Participants will complete online neuropsychological tests and questionnaires related to their health-related quality of life (HR-QoL), physical activity, and psychological complaints. Blood samples will be analyzed for thyroid hormone levels and markers of systemic inflammation. The study will categorize patients into three groups based on their thyroid conditions to evaluate differences in cognitive outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old who are undergoing surgery for thyroid nodules classified as Bethesda IV-VI.

Not a fit: Patients with a previous diagnosis of autoimmune hypothyroidism or other cancers may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into cognitive health and quality of life improvements for thyroid cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: While cognitive dysfunction post-thyroid surgery has been explored, this study's specific focus on objective cognitive assessment in differentiated thyroid cancer survivors is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age \>18 years old, indication for surgery because of a thyroid nodule Bethesda IV-VI
* Able to read and understand the Swedish language
* Access to desktop computer or laptop with internet connection
* Able and willing to provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* A previous diagnosis of (auto-immune) hypothyroidism
* A previous cancer diagnosis (excluding basal cell cancer of the skin)
* Indications for surgery other than (solely) a thyroid nodule (i.e., concomitant Graves)
* A diagnosis of medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancer

Where this trial is running

Stockholm

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Thyroid NoduleThyroid CancerCognitive DeclineSurvivorshipSymptoms, Cognitive
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.