Child with RET proto-oncogene codon 634 mutation

Abstract

Herein we reported a 7-year-old child with RET proto-oncogene c634 mutation. Her mother had been diagnosed with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), and treated six years ago. Heterozygous mutation of the RET proto-oncogene at c634 had been detected in her mother. Genetic analysis showed the presence of the same mutation in our patient. Thyroid functions were normal. Serum calcitonin level was found mildly elevated. Parathormone (PTH) and carcinoembrionic antigen (CEA) levels were normal. Prophylactic thyroidectomy and sampling of cervical lymph nodes were performed. Histopathologic examination revealed hyperplasia in thyroid C cells, and reactive lymphadenopathy. The risk of MTC has been reported 100% through the life of patients with RET protooncogene mutation. It has been reported that particularly patients with c634 mutation have more risk of occurence of metastatic and progressive/recurrent MTC. Prophylactic thyroidectomy, cervical lymph node dissection before 5-years-of-age should be considered for these patients.