Thyroid Cancer

Introduction

• Thyroid cancer arises from the cells of the thyroid gland.

• It is generally highly treatable and often curable, especially when detected early.

Thyroid Cancer

Types of Thyroid Cancer

1. Papillary Thyroid Cancer:

• The most common and least aggressive type.

2. Follicular Thyroid Cancer:

• Includes Hurtled cell carcinoma; tends to spread to distant organs.

3. Medullary Thyroid Cancer:

• Arises from C cells that produce calcitonin; may be part of genetic syndromes.

4. Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer:

• Rare and highly aggressive.

Causes

1. Genetic Mutations: Can lead to uncontrolled cell growth.

2. Radiation Exposure: Increased risk, particularly from childhood radiation exposure.

3. Family History: Genetic predisposition in some types of thyroid cancer.

Symptoms

• A lump or swelling in the neck.

• Hoarseness or voice changes.

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing.

• Persistent cough not related to a cold.

Diagnosis

1. Ultrasound: To visualize thyroid nodules and lymph nodes.

2. Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: To examine cells for cancer.

3. Blood Tests: To measure levels of thyroid hormones and calcitonin.

4. Radioactive Iodine Scan: To assess thyroid function and detect metastasis.

5. Genetic Testing: For hereditary forms of thyroid cancer.

Treatment

1. Surgery: Primary treatment, often involving thyroidectomy (removal of part or all of the thyroid gland).

2. Radioactive Iodine Therapy: To destroy remaining thyroid tissue and treat metastasis.

3. Thyroid Hormone Therapy: To replace hormones and suppress TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) to prevent cancer recurrence.

4. External Radiation Therapy: For advanced or inoperable cancer.

5. Chemotherapy: Used in some cases of anaplastic thyroid cancer.

6. Targeted Therapy: For advanced cancer not responding to other treatments.