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What Is Thyroid Cancer and How Does It Develop?

Thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the thyroid gland—a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck—begin to grow uncontrollably. The thyroid is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. Thyroid cancer can develop from different types of thyroid cells, with papillary and follicular carcinomas being the most common and generally the most treatable. Medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancers are rarer and may be more aggressive. Early diagnosis plays a vital role in treatment success.

What Causes Thyroid Cancer and Who Is at Risk?

While the exact cause of thyroid cancer is often unknown, several factors can increase the risk. These include exposure to radiation, especially during childhood, a family history of thyroid cancer or genetic syndromes, and certain thyroid conditions like goiter. It is more prevalent in women than in men and is commonly diagnosed in individuals between ages 30 and 60. While thyroid cancer is increasing in incidence, most cases are detected early and respond well to treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer?

In many cases, thyroid cancer causes no symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may notice a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or changes in voice, persistent cough, or neck pain. Some people experience swollen lymph nodes near the thyroid. Because these symptoms can resemble less serious conditions, it’s essential to undergo a proper medical evaluation if they persist or worsen.

How Is Thyroid Cancer Diagnosed?

Thyroid cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests like ultrasound, and blood tests to evaluate thyroid function. A fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of a thyroid nodule is often the most definitive diagnostic tool, where a small sample of tissue is analyzed for cancerous cells. Further imaging such as CT scans, MRI, or radioactive iodine scans may be used to determine the cancer's extent and whether it has spread.

What Are the Treatment Options for Thyroid Cancer?

Treatment for thyroid cancer depends on the type and stage of cancer. The primary treatment is surgery, often involving a thyroidectomy (removal of part or all of the thyroid gland). In some cases, radioactive iodine therapy is administered post-surgery to destroy any remaining cancerous tissue. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is required if the entire thyroid is removed. For more advanced or aggressive cases, treatments may include external beam radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted drug therapy.