Association between circadian rhythm disruption and the risk of malignancy in patients with thyroid nodules: a propensity score-matched study
By
Pengfei Gu
Beibei Zhang
Ziliang Ding
Yukun Wei
Yahui Sun
Pengzhao Song
Weiwei Zou
Yong Han
Fengli Guo
May 12, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Link Between Disruption of Circadian Rhythms and Malignancy Risk in Thyroid Nodule Patients: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Thyroid Cancer Risk in Patients with Thyroid Nodules Key Mechanisms Cumulative circadian rhythm disruption (CRD) affecting genomic integrity and immune function. Target Population Patients with thyroid nodules undergoing thyroidectomy. Care Setting Hospital-based surgical setting.
Key Highlights
Cumulative CRD is associated with increased malignancy risk in thyroid nodules. Higher CRD severity correlates with aggressive clinicopathological features. High CRD is a strong independent predictor for lymph node metastasis. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Assess circadian health as part of risk stratification for thyroid nodules. Management
Consider lifestyle interventions to mitigate circadian rhythm disruption. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor for aggressive features in thyroid nodules with high CRD. Risks
Increased risk of malignancy and aggressive progression with higher CRD. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with thyroid nodules undergoing thyroidectomy.
Lifestyle modifications may serve as a novel, modifiable risk factor.
Clinical Best Practices
Incorporate assessment of circadian rhythm in clinical evaluations of thyroid nodules. Educate patients on the potential risks associated with circadian disruption. Related Resources & Content
