Understanding genetic risks for thyroid cancer

Hereditary Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer

Not applicable Interventional Dana-Farber Cancer Institute · NCT02747888

This study is trying to find out if certain genes passed down in families can increase the risk of thyroid cancer by looking at the family and medical histories of people with thyroid cancer or nodules.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment250 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorDana-Farber Cancer Institute Academic / other
Locations1 site (Boston, Massachusetts)
Trial IDNCT02747888 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research focuses on identifying hereditary risk factors for thyroid cancer by studying families with a history of the disease. Participants, including children and adults with known or suspected thyroid cancer or nodules, will provide family and medical history information along with blood or saliva samples for genetic analysis. The study aims to perform DNA sequencing to uncover genetic alterations that may contribute to thyroid cancer development. By understanding these genetic factors, researchers hope to improve risk assessment and management for affected families.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include pediatric and adult patients with a history of thyroid cancer or nodules, particularly those from families with a strong suspicion of hereditary cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without a family history of thyroid cancer or those who do not have current or past thyroid cancer/nodules may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better screening and prevention strategies for individuals at risk of hereditary thyroid cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in identifying genetic factors associated with various cancers, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into hereditary thyroid cancer.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Individual pediatric patient with current or previous known or suspected thyroid cancer or nodule(s).
* Individual adult patient with current or previous known or suspected thyroid cancer or nodule(s) if they come from a family with a high suspicion of hereditary cancer (as below).
* Individuals from families with a high suspicion of hereditary thyroid cancer:

  * Families with a current or previous diagnosis of a thyroid cancer/nodule occurring in childhood (\<18 years old).
  * Families with a high suspicion of hereditary thyroid cancer/nodules other than above to include:

    * Families with thyroid cancer in multiple individuals
    * Families with thyroid cancer and a known genetic syndrome
    * Families with thyroid cancer and a suspected genetic syndrome (e.g. multiple childhood cancers in the family, multiple primary cancers, multiple endocrinopathies, etc.)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals who are unable to give informed consent.
* Individuals who are unable to complete study materials.

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts

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 CancerThyroid
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.