Before we begin: Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck. There are several.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about thyroid cancer. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is thyroid cancer? Thyroid cancer is a cancer that starts in the tissues of the thyroid. Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. It makes hormones that control the way the body uses energy. These hormones affect nearly every organ in your body and control many of your body’s most important functions. For example, they affect your breathing, heart rate, weight, digestion, and moods.
What are the different types of thyroid cancer? There are different types of thyroid cancer; the main ones include:
Differentiated thyroid cancer, which includes papillary cancer and follicular cancer
Medullary thyroid cancer
Anaplastic thyroid cancer
Who is more likely to develop thyroid cancer? Certain people are more likely to develop thyroid cancer. Your risk is higher if you:
Are between ages 25 and 65
Are a woman
Are Asian
Were exposed to certain types of radiation, including from radiation treatments to your head or neck as a child or from a radiation emergency
Have had a goiter (enlarged thyroid)
Having certain genetic conditions, including certain types of multiple endocrine neoplasia
Have a family history of thyroid cancer or thyroid disease
What are the symptoms of thyroid cancer? Thyroid cancer may not cause symptoms at first. It is sometimes found during a routine physical exam. You may get signs or symptoms as the cancer gets bigger. The symptoms may include:
A lump (nodule) in the neck
Trouble breathing
Trouble swallowing
Pain when swallowing
Hoarseness or other changes to your voice that do not get better
How is thyroid cancer diagnosed? To find out if you have thyroid cancer, your health care provider may use:
A physical exam, including checking your neck for swelling, lumps, or anything that seems unusual
A medical history
Thyroid tests
Other blood or imaging tests
A biopsy
What are the treatments for thyroid cancer? Treatment for thyroid cancer depends on the type of cancer you have and whether the cancer has spread. Often, more than one type of treatment may be needed. The treatment options include:
Surgery.
Radiation therapy, including radioactive iodine therapy.
Chemotherapy.
Thyroid hormone therapy.
Targeted therapy, which uses drugs or other substances that attack specific cancer cells with less harm to normal cells.
Watchful waiting, which means that you don’t get treatment right away. Your regularly checks to see if your signs or symptoms appear or change.
NIH: National Cancer Institute
Categories: Cancers, Ear, Nose and Throat, Endocrine System.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Cancer Institute.
Key Takeaways
Understanding thyroid cancer is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.