HEAD & NECK CANCERS

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid Cancer refers to cancers that develop in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck.

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ON THIS PAGE:
Overview
Signs & Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
FAQs

Overview of Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid Cancer refers to cancers that develop in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate your heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight. Thyroid cancer can disrupt these essential functions, necessitating timely diagnosis and treatment.

How Does It Happen?

Thyroid Cancer occurs when cells in your thyroid undergo genetic changes (mutations). These mutations allow the cells to grow and multiply rapidly. The abnormal cells lose the ability to die, as normal cells would. The accumulating abnormal thyroid cells form a tumor, which can invade nearby tissues and spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Causes & Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing Thyroid Cancer, including:

Genetic Mutations: Certain genetic mutations can predispose individuals to Thyroid Cancer. For example, mutations in the RET gene are linked to medullary thyroid cancer.

Exposure to Radiation: Radiation therapy treatments to the head and neck, especially during childhood, can increase the risk.

Family History: A history of thyroid cancer or other endocrine cancers in the family can elevate risk.

Gender: Women are more likely to develop thyroid cancer than men, possibly due to hormonal influences.

Age: Thyroid cancer can occur at any age but is more common after age 30.

Iodine Deficiency: A lack of iodine in the diet, essential for thyroid hormone production, can increase the risk.

Stages & Grades

Thyroid Cancer is classified into stages and grades to determine its severity and guide treatment:

Stages:

Stage I: Cancer is limited to the thyroid and is 2 centimeters or smaller.
Stage II: Cancer is larger than 2 centimeters but still within the thyroid.
Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as lungs or bones.

Grades:

Low Grade: Slow-growing and less aggressive.
High Grade: Fast-growing and more aggressive.

Prognosis at Each Stage & Grade

Stage I and II: Generally excellent prognosis with high survival rates, often approaching 100% with appropriate treatment.

Stage III: Good prognosis with appropriate treatment, though slightly lower than early stages.

Stage IV: More challenging with lower survival rates, requiring aggressive treatment strategies.

Types of Thyroid Cancer

Papillary Thyroid Cancer: The most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases, typically grows slowly and often spreads to lymph nodes in the neck.

Follicular Thyroid Cancer: Includes Hurthle cell cancer, and is the second most common type, more likely to spread to distant organs like lungs and bones.

Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Develops from C cells which produce the hormone calcitonin and can be sporadic or hereditary.

Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: A rare and aggressive type, accounting for about 1-2% of thyroid cancers, often rapidly growing and spreading.

Thyroid Lymphoma: A very rare type that begins in the immune system cells within the thyroid.

Signs & Symptoms

?A lump or swelling in the neck
Difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness or changes in voice
Persistent cough not associated with a cold
Neck pain
Swollen lymph nodes

When to See a Specialist?

If you notice persistent symptoms like a lump in your neck, difficulty swallowing, or changes in your voice, it is crucial to consult a specialist. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.Contact KCC to schedule an appointment with our experts.

Whom to Consult?

At KCC, you can consult our experienced endocrinologists, oncologists, and surgeons who specialize in Thyroid Cancer. Our multidisciplinary team works together to provide comprehensive care tailored to your condition. Schedule a consultation today.

Chhatrapati Shahu Cancer Research Foundation, Kolhapur

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Diagnostic Tests & Procedures

To diagnose Thyroid Cancer, the following tests and procedures may be recommended:

Physical Examination: Checking for lumps or nodules in the neck and any associated symptoms.

Ultrasound: Imaging to visualize the thyroid gland and detect abnormalities such as nodules or enlarged lymph nodes.

Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: Removing cells from the thyroid nodule using a thin needle for microscopic examination to check for cancer cells.

Blood Tests: Checking levels of thyroid hormones (T3, T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), along with calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for medullary thyroid cancer.

Thyroid Scan: Using radioactive iodine to create images of the thyroid and determine the nature of the thyroid nodule.

Molecular Testing: Testing for genetic mutations in thyroid cancer cells, such as BRAF, RAS, or RET mutations, which can influence treatment decisions.

How Specialists Confirm the Diagnosis?

At KCC, specialists use a comprehensive approach to confirm the diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer. This includes a combination of physical examinations, ultrasound imaging, Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) biopsy results, and molecular testing.

The FNA biopsy is crucial as it provides definitive evidence by revealing the presence of cancer cells under a microscope. Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

For more details and to schedule a diagnostic evaluation, please contact KCC Hospital.

What to do when Diagnosed?

Receiving a diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer can be overwhelming. However, knowing the next steps can make the process more manageable. At KCC, we offer a range of support services to help you navigate your journey:

Personalized Treatment Plans: Our specialists will work with you to create a tailored treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis.

Counseling Services: Emotional and psychological support is available to help you and your family cope with the diagnosis.

Support Groups: Access to support groups where you can connect with others going through similar experiences.

Staying proactive and informed is crucial. Schedule a consultation with KCC to discuss your diagnosis and the next steps.

Available Treatments for Thyroid Cancer

KCC offers a variety of treatment options tailored to each patient’s specific needs:

Surgery: The primary treatment for most Thyroid Cancers, involving the removal of part (lobectomy) or all (thyroidectomy) of the thyroid gland.

Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Uses radioactive iodine to destroy any remaining cancerous thyroid tissue after surgery. It is particularly effective for papillary and follicular thyroid cancers.

Hormone Therapy: Medications to suppress the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and replace thyroid hormones, reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.

External Beam Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays target and kill cancer cells, typically used for patients who cannot undergo surgery or those with residual cancer post-surgery.

Chemotherapy: Drugs used to kill cancer cells, typically reserved for aggressive types of thyroid cancer that do not respond to other treatments.

Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically target molecular pathways involved in cancer growth and spread, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors for advanced thyroid cancers.

Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells, used in certain cases.

Gold Standard Treatment & Why

For most types of Thyroid Cancer, surgical resection followed by Radioactive Iodine Therapy is considered the gold standard due to its effectiveness in removing and destroying cancerous cells, thereby reducing the risk of recurrence.

Whom to Consult for Treatment

For the best treatment outcomes, it is essential to consult specialists who are experienced in managing Thyroid Cancer. At KCC, you will find a team of dedicated endocrinologists, oncologists, and surgeons who work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care.

Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that you receive the most effective treatment tailored to your condition. Schedule a consultation with KCC’s expert team today.

Prognosis of Treatment

The prognosis for Thyroid Cancer varies based on several factors, including the type of cancer, its stage at diagnosis, and the patient’s response to treatment. Generally, the prognosis is excellent for early-stage Thyroid Cancer, with high survival rates.

Even for more advanced stages, effective treatment options are available that can significantly improve outcomes. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for a better prognosis.

For personalized information on your prognosis, please contact KCC to speak with our specialists.

Most Common FAQs on Thyroid Cancer

What are the early symptoms of Thyroid Cancer?

Early symptoms include a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness.

How is Thyroid Cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves physical examination, ultrasound, FNA biopsy, blood tests, and molecular testing.

Can Thyroid Cancer be prevented?

Preventive measures include avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure and regular monitoring if you have a family history of thyroid cancer.

Is Thyroid Cancer hereditary?

Certain types of thyroid cancer

What is the survival rate for Thyroid Cancer?

Survival rates are generally high, especially for early-stage detection and successful treatment.

What are the treatment side effects?

Side effects vary but may include fatigue, changes in voice, and hormone imbalances.

Can Thyroid Cancer recur?

Yes, regular follow-ups are essential to monitor for recurrence.

Are there alternative treatments for Thyroid Cancer?

Some patients explore complementary therapies, but always consult your doctor first.

How do I choose the right treatment plan?

Discuss options with your oncologist to determine the best plan for your specific case.

What support services are available at KCC?

KCC offers counseling, nutritional advice, and support groups for patients and families.

At Kolhapur Cancer Centre, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to Thyroid Cancer patients. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you on your journey to recovery. Get in touch with KCC to start your treatment journey.