ObjectiveTo investigate the structure, ligand, and tissue distribution of galectin-3, the relationship of galectin3 with tumor and the expression of galectin-3 in several thyroid diseases. MethodsRelated articles were reviewed. ResultsGalectin-3 was expressed in normal and tumor cell that regulated cell growth, differentiation, adhesion, apoptosis, and angiogenesis, which participated invasion and metastasis of tumor. ConclusionGalectin-3 may be used to discriminate benign and malignant thyroid tumor.