Tumor - thyroid
Key points
- Thyroid cancer is a malignancy (cancerous growth) of the thyroid gland.
- People who have had radiation therapy to the neck are at higher risk.
- A physical examination can reveal a thyroid mass or nodule (usually in the lower part of the front of the neck) or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
- Surgery is usually the treatment of choice, with usually the entire thyroid gland removed.
Alternative names
Thyroid cancer; Cancer - thyroid
Definition
Thyroid cancer is a malignancy (cancerous growth) of the thyroid gland.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Thyroid cancer can occur in all age groups. People who have had radiation therapy to the neck are at higher risk. This therapy was commonly used in the 1950s to treat enlarged thymus glands, adenoids and tonsils, and skin disorders. People who received radiation therapy as children have a higher incidence of thyroid cancer.
Other risk factors are a family history of thyroid cancer and chronic goiter. The disease affects 1 in 1,000 people.
There are several types of thyroid cancer:
- Papillary carcinoma is the most common and usually affects women of child-bearing age. It metastasizes (spreads from the original site) slowly and is the least malignant type of thyroid cancer.
- Follicular carcinoma accounts for about 30% of all cases and has a greater rate of recurrence and metastasis.
- Medullary carcinoma is a cancer of non-thyroid cells in the thyroid gland and tends to occur in families. It requires different treatment from other types of thyroid cancer.
- Anaplastic carcinoma (also called giant and spindle cell cancer) is the most malignant form of thyroid cancer. It is rare, but does not respond to radioiodine therapy. Anaplastic carcinoma metastasizes quickly and invades nearby structures such as the trachea, causing compression and breathing difficulties.
Symptoms
- Enlargement or a nodule of the thyroid gland or neck swelling
- Hoarseness or changing voice
- Cough or cough with bleeding
- Difficulty swallowing
Note: Symptoms may vary depending on the type of thyroid cancer
Signs and tests
A physical examination can reveal a thyroid mass or nodule (usually in the lower part of the front of the neck) or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
Tests that indicate thyroid cancer:
- Thyroid biopsy showing anaplastic, follicular, medullary or papillary carcinoma cells
- Ultrasound of the thyroid revealing nodule
- Thyroid scan showing cold nodule (a nodule that does not light up on scan)
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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