SUMMARY
The research interests of M. Regina Castro, M.D., center on finding better treatments for thyroid disorders, especially hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules and cancer. Dr. Castro is particularly focused on nonsurgical treatment modalities, such as radiofrequency ablation and percutaneous ethanol injection. She studies new ways to use these technologies to manage benign solid and cystic thyroid nodules, thyroid cancer, and thyroid cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes.
Focus areas
- Hyperthyroidism.
- Percutaneous ethanol injection.
- Radiofrequency ablation.
- Thyroid cancer.
- Thyroid nodules.
Significance to patient care
Treatment for patients with large symptomatic benign thyroid nodules involves surgically removing part or all of the thyroid. This often results in a decrease or loss of thyroid function, also known as hypothyroidism. As a result, patients require thyroid hormone replacement.
Dr. Castro's research focuses on finding better treatments for thyroid disorders. She studies new ways to use nonsurgical treatments to greatly reduce the size of thyroid nodules and eliminate symptoms of pressure or discomfort while preserving thyroid function. These treatments include radiofrequency ablation for solid nodules and percutaneous ethanol injection for large cystic nodules.
These new treatments are not yet widely available in the U.S., as they require experienced healthcare professionals to achieve good outcomes and minimize the risks of complications. These treatments are being used more often at Mayo Clinic with excellent outcomes.
Professional highlights
- Director, Endocrinology Fellowship Program, Mayo Clinic, 2021-present.
- Distinguished Service Award, American Thyroid Association, 2023.
- Woman of the Year Award, American Thyroid Association, 2022.
- Chair, Women in Thyroidology, American Thyroid Association, 2020-2021.
- Chair, Patient Affairs and Education Committee, American Thyroid Association, 2015-2019.