MemorialCare Cancer Institute at:
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer occurs in the thyroid gland, an organ located in the throat near the Adam’s apple. This small gland produces hormones to regulate the metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature. At times, lumps or nodules may form in the thyroid. Most of these lumps are non-cancerous (benign) but a small percentage are cancerous (malignant).The four main types of thyroid cancer are:
- Papillary Thyroid Cancer – The most common in the United States. Slow forming.
- Follicular Thyroid Cancer – The second most common type. Slow forming.
- Medullary Thyroid Cancer – Less common. Slow forming.
- Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer - Less common. Fast forming.
Symptoms
Thyroid cancer symptoms may include:- A lump, swelling or pain in the front of the neck.
- Hoarseness or changes in the voice.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Causes & Prevention
The causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. It is difficult to prevent thyroid cancer as most risk factors cannot be controlled. A healthy diet and avoiding exposure to X-rays at a young age (when possible) are recommended.
Risk Factors
You are at a greater risk for thyroid cancer risk if you:- Have been exposed to radiation.
- Have a family history of thyroid cancer, swollen thyroid (goiters) or colon growths.
- Have inherited certain gene mutations that can increase the risk of thyroid cancer.
- Have a personal history of swollen thyroid (goiters).
- Are female.
- Are over the age of 45 years.
- Have a diet too low or too high in salt (iodine).
Diagnosis
After a physical exam a blood test can be taken to check the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). An ultrasound (high-frequency sound waves) can be performed to view the thyroid gland to determine if nodules are solid (may be cancerous) or fluid. A fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy may also be taken so that tissues from the thyroid gland can be viewed by a pathologist under a microscope to detect thyroid cancer and the type.
Staging
If cancer is diagnosed and before treatment begins, additional tests are performed to determine the stage of the cancer and to see if it has spread to other parts of the body.
Treatments
MemorialCare’s experienced team of oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and surgeons conduct roundtable discussions (tumor boards) of newly diagnosed patients to make recommendations for the best course of treatment.
