Thyroid Cancer
All Type of Cancers
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About Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer occurs in the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism and hormone production. When found early on, it is among the cancers that are most easily treated. The disease progresses slowly in most cases, allowing effective management with modern therapies. Advances in surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and radioactive iodine treatment have significantly improved survival rates. Awareness and regular check-ups play a key role in ensuring early detection and better outcomes.
Causes of Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer develops due to genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. Genetic mutations in thyroid cells can cause uncontrolled growth, leading to cancer. Exposure to radiation, particularly in childhood, heightens the risk. A family history of thyroid cancer or genetic disorders like multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) may also contribute. Iodine deficiency or excess iodine intake can disrupt thyroid function and lead to abnormalities. While the exact cause is not always known, maintaining thyroid health and regular check-ups can help with early detection.
Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
- Lump or Swelling in the Neck – A painless lump or nodule in the thyroid area.
- Hoarseness or Voice Changes – Persistent changes in voice due to pressure on the vocal cords.
- Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing – A growing tumor may obstruct the throat or windpipe.
- Persistent Throat or Neck Pain – Discomfort that does not go away.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes – Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, indicating possible cancer spread.
Diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer
A doctor checks for lumps or unusual changes in the breast.
- Physical Examination – A doctor checks for lumps or swelling in the neck.
- Ultrasound Scan – Helps detect thyroid nodules and determine if they are solid or fluid-filled.
- Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) – A small tissue sample is taken from the thyroid nodule for laboratory testing.
- Blood Tests (Thyroid Function Tests & Tumor Markers) – Measures thyroid hormone levels and detects abnormal cell activity.
- CT, MRI, or PET Scan – Advanced imaging to check if cancer has spread beyond the thyroid.
Treatment of Thyroid Cancer
- Surgery (Thyroidectomy or Lobectomy) – Partial or complete removal of the thyroid gland to eliminate cancerous growths.
- Radioactive Iodine Therapy (RAI) – Uses radioactive iodine to destroy any remaining thyroid cancer cells after surgery.
- Hormone Therapy – Replaces thyroid hormones and prevents cancer recurrence by stopping TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) production.
- Targeted Therapy & Chemotherapy – Used in advanced cases to block cancer cell growth or slow disease progression.
- External Radiation Therapy – High-energy beams target and kill cancer cells, often used when surgery isn’t an option.