1.Korean Thyroid Association Guidelines on the Management of Differentiated Thyroid Cancers; Part II. Follow-up Surveillance after Initial Treatment 2026
Eun Kyung LEE ; Seung Heon KANG ; Bon Seok KOO ; Mijin KIM ; Min Joo KIM ; Bo Hyun KIM ; Ji Won KIM ; Dong Gyu NA ; Sohyun PARK ; Ji-In BANG ; Kyorim BACK ; Youngduk SEO ; Young-Ik SON ; Young Shin SONG ; Dong Yeob SHIN ; Jong-Hyuk AHN ; Hwa Young AHN ; So Won OH ; Ho-Ryun WON ; Won Sang YOO ; Min Kyoung LEE ; Sang-Woo LEE ; Jeongmin LEE ; Ji Ye LEE ; Dong-Jun LIM ; Ki-Wook CHUNG ; Ari CHONG ; Jin Hyang JUNG ; Sun Wook CHO ; Yoon Young CHO ; Chae Moon HONG ; Young Joo PARK ;
International Journal of Thyroidology 2026;19(1):1-40
In patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), initial recurrence risk stratification based on clinical, histopathological, and perioperative data remains the key determinant for guiding management strategies during the first 1-2 years post-treatment. However, the adoption of ongoing risk stratification (ORS), which dynamically reassesses risk by integrating longitudinal clinical data and treatment response, enables more precise long-term prognostic assessment and facilitates highly individualized management. Building upon recent guidelines, the 2026 KTA guideline has been further refined by incorporating robust evidence from large-scale national cohorts and comprehensive systematic reviews. These updated recommendations outline contemporary concepts of ORS, risk-adapted TSH suppression targets, optimized surveillance modalities for recurrence detection, and disease-specific long-term follow-up strategies. Reflecting the paradigm shift toward de-escalated treatment, this revision integrates evolved perspectives on TSH suppression intensity, the clinical interpretation of thyroglobulin levels, and tailored follow-up intervals. These evidence-based recommendations aim to minimize unnecessary treatment and excessive surveillance in the large proportion of patients with excellent prognosis after initial therapy, while ensuring that each patient receives appropriately tailored and effective long-term management.
2.Clinical Practice Guidelines for Diagnosis and Non-Surgical Treatment of Primary Frozen Shoulder
Byung Chan LEE ; Gi-Wook KIM ; Keewon KIM ; Nackhwan KIM ; Dong Hwan KIM ; Doo Young KIM ; Du Hwan KIM ; Beom Suk KIM ; Seong Hun KIM ; In Jong KIM ; Hyun Jung KIM ; Yoonju NA ; Kyung Eun NAM ; Sung Gyu MOON ; Chang-Won MOON ; Kyunghoon MIN ; Donghwi PARK ; Myung Woo PARK ; Yong Bok PARK ; Jae Hyeon PARK ; Chul-Hyun PARK ; Hyeng-Kyu PARK ; Yunsoo SOH ; Jaeki AHN ; Seoyon YANG ; Kyeong Eun UHM ; Sun Jae WON ; Yu Hui WON ; Dong Hwan YUN ; Yu Sung YOON ; Jin A YOON ; Byeong-Ju LEE ; Woo Hyung LEE ; Yun Jung LEE ; Jae-Hyun LEE ; Jong Hwa LEE ; Yu Jin IM ; Jae-Young LIM ; Min Cheol CHANG ; Sung Joon CHUNG ; Il Young JUNG ; Sungju JEE ; Kyoung Hyo CHOI ; Jong-Moon HWANG ; Jae-Young HAN
Clinical Pain 2025;24(1):1-26
Objective:
Primary frozen shoulder causes significant pain and progressively restricts shoulder movements. Diagnosis is made clinically based on patient history and physical examination. Management is mainly non-invasive owing to its self-limiting clinical course. However, clinical practice guidelines for frozen shoulder have not yet been developed in Korea. The developed guidelines aim to provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of frozen shoulder.
Methods:
A guideline development committee reviewed the literature from four databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and KMbase). Using the Population, Intervention, Comparator, and Outcome (PICO) framework, the committee formulated two backgrounds and 16 key questions to address common clinical concerns. Recommendations were made using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework.
Results:
Diabetes, thyroid disease, and dyslipidemia significantly increase the risk of developing a frozen shoulder. Although frozen shoulder is often self-limiting, some patients may experience long-term functional disabilities. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging should be used as adjunctive tools alongside clinical diagnosis, and rather than as independent diagnostic methods. Noninvasive approaches, such as medications, physical modalities, exercises, electrical stimulation, and manual therapy, may reduce pain and improve shoulder function. Other noninvasive interventions have limited evidence, and their application should be based on clinical judgment. Intra-articular steroid injections are recommended for treatment, and physiotherapy or hydrodilation with steroid injections can also be beneficial.
Conclusion
These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and treating primary frozen shoulder.
3.2025 Korean Thyroid Association Management Guidelines for Radioactive Iodine Therapy in Patients with Hyperthyroidism
Kyeong Jin KIM ; Eyun SONG ; Mijin KIM ; Hyemi KWON ; Eu Jeong KU ; Hyun Woo KWON ; Jee Hee YOON ; Eun Kyung LEE ; Won Woo LEE ; Young Joo PARK ; Dong-Jun LIM ; Sun Wook KIM ; Ho-Cheol KANG ; Jae Hoon CHUNG ; Tae Yong KIM ; Sin Gon KIM ; Dong Gyu NA ; Jee Soo KIM
International Journal of Thyroidology 2025;18(1):65-79
Hyperthyroidism is a clinical condition characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormones, leading to thyrotoxicosis, with Graves’ disease being the most common underlying etiology. The treatment options for hyperthyroidism include antithyroid drug (ATD) therapy, radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy, and thyroidectomy. To establish standardized clinical recommendations specific to RAI therapy focusing on the safety, efficacy, pre- and post-treatment protocols, and follow-up monitoring, the Korean Thyroid Association convened a Task Force dedicated to developing evidence-based guidelines. Six key clinical questions were identified through expert panel discussion. A systematic review of literature published between 2013 and 2022 was conducted using PubMed and Embase with “hyperthyroidism” and “Graves’ disease” as search terms. Additional studies published during manuscript development were also included. The guideline classifies the clinical indications for RAI therapy into three categories: cases in which RAI is strongly recommended, may be considered, or not recommended. A fixed dose of 10–15 mCi is recommended for RAI therapy. While a routine low-iodine diet is not required, patients should avoid iodine-rich foods for at least one week before treatment. ATD should be discontinued 3–7 days prior to RAI and may be resumed afterward in selected cases. Prophylactic glucocorticoids are advised for patients with mild active thyroid eye disease and may be considered in those with additional risk factors. Thyroid function should be monitored at 4–6 weeks post-treatment, then every 2–3 months until stabilization, and subsequently at 6–12 month intervals or as clinically indicated. This guideline reflects recent advances in RAI therapy for hyperthyroidism and emphasizes the importance of individualized treatment decisions based on clinical characteristics, comorbidities, and patient preferences in Korea.
4.A walk through the development of human leukocyte antigen typing: from serologic techniques to next-generation sequencing
Haeyoun CHOI ; Eun-Jeong CHOI ; Hyoung-Jae KIM ; In-Cheol BAEK ; Aegyeong WON ; Su Jin PARK ; Tai-Gyu KIM ; Yeun-Jun CHUNG
Clinical Transplantation and Research 2024;38(4):294-308
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) is a group of glycoproteins encoded by the major his-tocompatibility complex (MHC) that plays a pivotal role in the host's immune defense.Given that the MHC represents the most polymorphic region in the human genome, HLA typing is crucial in organ transplantation. It significantly influences graft rejection, graft-versus-host disease, and the overall patient outcome by mediating the discrimination between self and nonself. HLA typing technology began with serological methods and has evolved rapidly alongside advances in molecular technologies, progressing from DNA-based typing to next- or third-generation sequencing. These advancements have increased the accuracy of HLA typing and reduced ambiguities, leading to marked improvements in transplantation outcomes. Additionally, numerous novel HLA alleles have been identified. In this review, we explore the developmental history and future prospects of HLA typing technology, which promises to further benefit the field of transplantation.
5.Practice guidelines for managing extrahepatic biliary tract cancers
Hyung Sun KIM ; Mee Joo KANG ; Jingu KANG ; Kyubo KIM ; Bohyun KIM ; Seong-Hun KIM ; Soo Jin KIM ; Yong-Il KIM ; Joo Young KIM ; Jin Sil KIM ; Haeryoung KIM ; Hyo Jung KIM ; Ji Hae NAHM ; Won Suk PARK ; Eunkyu PARK ; Joo Kyung PARK ; Jin Myung PARK ; Byeong Jun SONG ; Yong Chan SHIN ; Keun Soo AHN ; Sang Myung WOO ; Jeong Il YU ; Changhoon YOO ; Kyoungbun LEE ; Dong Ho LEE ; Myung Ah LEE ; Seung Eun LEE ; Ik Jae LEE ; Huisong LEE ; Jung Ho IM ; Kee-Taek JANG ; Hye Young JANG ; Sun-Young JUN ; Hong Jae CHON ; Min Kyu JUNG ; Yong Eun CHUNG ; Jae Uk CHONG ; Eunae CHO ; Eui Kyu CHIE ; Sae Byeol CHOI ; Seo-Yeon CHOI ; Seong Ji CHOI ; Joon Young CHOI ; Hye-Jeong CHOI ; Seung-Mo HONG ; Ji Hyung HONG ; Tae Ho HONG ; Shin Hye HWANG ; In Gyu HWANG ; Joon Seong PARK
Annals of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery 2024;28(2):161-202
Background:
s/Aims: Reported incidence of extrahepatic bile duct cancer is higher in Asians than in Western populations. Korea, in particular, is one of the countries with the highest incidence rates of extrahepatic bile duct cancer in the world. Although research and innovative therapeutic modalities for extrahepatic bile duct cancer are emerging, clinical guidelines are currently unavailable in Korea. The Korean Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery in collaboration with related societies (Korean Pancreatic and Biliary Surgery Society, Korean Society of Abdominal Radiology, Korean Society of Medical Oncology, Korean Society of Radiation Oncology, Korean Society of Pathologists, and Korean Society of Nuclear Medicine) decided to establish clinical guideline for extrahepatic bile duct cancer in June 2021.
Methods:
Contents of the guidelines were developed through subgroup meetings for each key question and a preliminary draft was finalized through a Clinical Guidelines Committee workshop.
Results:
In November 2021, the finalized draft was presented for public scrutiny during a formal hearing.
Conclusions
The extrahepatic guideline committee believed that this guideline could be helpful in the treatment of patients.
6.A walk through the development of human leukocyte antigen typing: from serologic techniques to next-generation sequencing
Haeyoun CHOI ; Eun-Jeong CHOI ; Hyoung-Jae KIM ; In-Cheol BAEK ; Aegyeong WON ; Su Jin PARK ; Tai-Gyu KIM ; Yeun-Jun CHUNG
Clinical Transplantation and Research 2024;38(4):294-308
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) is a group of glycoproteins encoded by the major his-tocompatibility complex (MHC) that plays a pivotal role in the host's immune defense.Given that the MHC represents the most polymorphic region in the human genome, HLA typing is crucial in organ transplantation. It significantly influences graft rejection, graft-versus-host disease, and the overall patient outcome by mediating the discrimination between self and nonself. HLA typing technology began with serological methods and has evolved rapidly alongside advances in molecular technologies, progressing from DNA-based typing to next- or third-generation sequencing. These advancements have increased the accuracy of HLA typing and reduced ambiguities, leading to marked improvements in transplantation outcomes. Additionally, numerous novel HLA alleles have been identified. In this review, we explore the developmental history and future prospects of HLA typing technology, which promises to further benefit the field of transplantation.
7.Clinical Trial Protocol for Porcine Islet Xenotransplantation in South Korea
Byung-Joon KIM ; Jun-Seop SHIN ; Byoung-Hoon MIN ; Jong-Min KIM ; Chung-Gyu PARK ; Hee-Jung KANG ; Eung Soo HWANG ; Won-Woo LEE ; Jung-Sik KIM ; Hyun Je KIM ; Iov KWON ; Jae Sung KIM ; Geun Soo KIM ; Joonho MOON ; Du Yeon SHIN ; Bumrae CHO ; Heung-Mo YANG ; Sung Joo KIM ; Kwang-Won KIM
Diabetes & Metabolism Journal 2024;48(6):1160-1168
Background:
Islet transplantation holds promise for treating selected type 1 diabetes mellitus patients, yet the scarcity of human donor organs impedes widespread adoption. Porcine islets, deemed a viable alternative, recently demonstrated successful longterm survival without zoonotic risks in a clinically relevant pig-to-non-human primate islet transplantation model. This success prompted the development of a clinical trial protocol for porcine islet xenotransplantation in humans.
Methods:
A single-center, open-label clinical trial initiated by the sponsor will assess the safety and efficacy of porcine islet transplantation for diabetes patients at Gachon Hospital. The protocol received approval from the Gachon Hospital Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) under the Investigational New Drug (IND) process. Two diabetic patients, experiencing inadequate glycemic control despite intensive insulin treatment and frequent hypoglycemic unawareness, will be enrolled. Participants and their family members will engage in deliberation before xenotransplantation during the screening period. Each patient will receive islets isolated from designated pathogen-free pigs. Immunosuppressants and systemic infection prophylaxis will follow the program schedule. The primary endpoint is to confirm the safety of porcine islets in patients, and the secondary endpoint is to assess whether porcine islets can reduce insulin dose and the frequency of hypoglycemic unawareness.
Conclusion
A clinical trial protocol adhering to global consensus guidelines for porcine islet xenotransplantation is presented, facilitating streamlined implementation of comparable human trials worldwide.
8.A walk through the development of human leukocyte antigen typing: from serologic techniques to next-generation sequencing
Haeyoun CHOI ; Eun-Jeong CHOI ; Hyoung-Jae KIM ; In-Cheol BAEK ; Aegyeong WON ; Su Jin PARK ; Tai-Gyu KIM ; Yeun-Jun CHUNG
Clinical Transplantation and Research 2024;38(4):294-308
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) is a group of glycoproteins encoded by the major his-tocompatibility complex (MHC) that plays a pivotal role in the host's immune defense.Given that the MHC represents the most polymorphic region in the human genome, HLA typing is crucial in organ transplantation. It significantly influences graft rejection, graft-versus-host disease, and the overall patient outcome by mediating the discrimination between self and nonself. HLA typing technology began with serological methods and has evolved rapidly alongside advances in molecular technologies, progressing from DNA-based typing to next- or third-generation sequencing. These advancements have increased the accuracy of HLA typing and reduced ambiguities, leading to marked improvements in transplantation outcomes. Additionally, numerous novel HLA alleles have been identified. In this review, we explore the developmental history and future prospects of HLA typing technology, which promises to further benefit the field of transplantation.
9.Clinical Trial Protocol for Porcine Islet Xenotransplantation in South Korea
Byung-Joon KIM ; Jun-Seop SHIN ; Byoung-Hoon MIN ; Jong-Min KIM ; Chung-Gyu PARK ; Hee-Jung KANG ; Eung Soo HWANG ; Won-Woo LEE ; Jung-Sik KIM ; Hyun Je KIM ; Iov KWON ; Jae Sung KIM ; Geun Soo KIM ; Joonho MOON ; Du Yeon SHIN ; Bumrae CHO ; Heung-Mo YANG ; Sung Joo KIM ; Kwang-Won KIM
Diabetes & Metabolism Journal 2024;48(6):1160-1168
Background:
Islet transplantation holds promise for treating selected type 1 diabetes mellitus patients, yet the scarcity of human donor organs impedes widespread adoption. Porcine islets, deemed a viable alternative, recently demonstrated successful longterm survival without zoonotic risks in a clinically relevant pig-to-non-human primate islet transplantation model. This success prompted the development of a clinical trial protocol for porcine islet xenotransplantation in humans.
Methods:
A single-center, open-label clinical trial initiated by the sponsor will assess the safety and efficacy of porcine islet transplantation for diabetes patients at Gachon Hospital. The protocol received approval from the Gachon Hospital Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) under the Investigational New Drug (IND) process. Two diabetic patients, experiencing inadequate glycemic control despite intensive insulin treatment and frequent hypoglycemic unawareness, will be enrolled. Participants and their family members will engage in deliberation before xenotransplantation during the screening period. Each patient will receive islets isolated from designated pathogen-free pigs. Immunosuppressants and systemic infection prophylaxis will follow the program schedule. The primary endpoint is to confirm the safety of porcine islets in patients, and the secondary endpoint is to assess whether porcine islets can reduce insulin dose and the frequency of hypoglycemic unawareness.
Conclusion
A clinical trial protocol adhering to global consensus guidelines for porcine islet xenotransplantation is presented, facilitating streamlined implementation of comparable human trials worldwide.
10.Clinical Trial Protocol for Porcine Islet Xenotransplantation in South Korea
Byung-Joon KIM ; Jun-Seop SHIN ; Byoung-Hoon MIN ; Jong-Min KIM ; Chung-Gyu PARK ; Hee-Jung KANG ; Eung Soo HWANG ; Won-Woo LEE ; Jung-Sik KIM ; Hyun Je KIM ; Iov KWON ; Jae Sung KIM ; Geun Soo KIM ; Joonho MOON ; Du Yeon SHIN ; Bumrae CHO ; Heung-Mo YANG ; Sung Joo KIM ; Kwang-Won KIM
Diabetes & Metabolism Journal 2024;48(6):1160-1168
Background:
Islet transplantation holds promise for treating selected type 1 diabetes mellitus patients, yet the scarcity of human donor organs impedes widespread adoption. Porcine islets, deemed a viable alternative, recently demonstrated successful longterm survival without zoonotic risks in a clinically relevant pig-to-non-human primate islet transplantation model. This success prompted the development of a clinical trial protocol for porcine islet xenotransplantation in humans.
Methods:
A single-center, open-label clinical trial initiated by the sponsor will assess the safety and efficacy of porcine islet transplantation for diabetes patients at Gachon Hospital. The protocol received approval from the Gachon Hospital Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) under the Investigational New Drug (IND) process. Two diabetic patients, experiencing inadequate glycemic control despite intensive insulin treatment and frequent hypoglycemic unawareness, will be enrolled. Participants and their family members will engage in deliberation before xenotransplantation during the screening period. Each patient will receive islets isolated from designated pathogen-free pigs. Immunosuppressants and systemic infection prophylaxis will follow the program schedule. The primary endpoint is to confirm the safety of porcine islets in patients, and the secondary endpoint is to assess whether porcine islets can reduce insulin dose and the frequency of hypoglycemic unawareness.
Conclusion
A clinical trial protocol adhering to global consensus guidelines for porcine islet xenotransplantation is presented, facilitating streamlined implementation of comparable human trials worldwide.

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