Horizon Prime Hospital - Thane

Thyroid cancer is a relatively rare form of cancer that originates in the thyroid gland, a small gland located in the neck, just below the Adam’s apple. Despite its lower incidence compared to other cancers, comprehending thyroid cancer and its effects is crucial for early detection, effective treatment, and patient education.

Thyroid cancer typically begins when cells within the thyroid gland undergo mutations, causing them to grow and divide uncontrollably. There are several types of thyroid cancer, each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches.

1. Papillary Thyroid Cancer
This is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. It generally grows slowly and has a high cure rate.
2. Follicular Thyroid Cancer
Follicular thyroid cancer accounts for about 10-15% of cases and tends to spread to distant organs, such as the lungs and bones.
3. Medullary Thyroid Cancer
This type accounts for about 5-10% of cases and develops in the C cells of the thyroid gland. It can be inherited and often requires different treatment approaches.
4. Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Anaplastic thyroid cancer is rare but aggressive, rapidly spreading to other parts of the body.

Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer:

• Radiation Exposure: Previous exposure to radiation, especially during childhood, increases the risk.
• Gender: Thyroid cancer occurs more frequently in women than in men.
• Age: The risk increases with age, especially after age 30.
• Family History: A family history of thyroid cancer or certain genetic syndromes may increase susceptibility.

Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
In its early stages, thyroid cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms. As the tumour grows, symptoms may include:

• A lump or swelling in the neck (most common symptom)
• Pain in the neck or throat
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early detection of thyroid cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Physical Examination: Feeling for lumps or enlargement in the thyroid gland.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to visualise the thyroid gland and determine the presence of abnormalities.
• Biopsy: Removing a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment options depend on the type and stage of thyroid cancer but may include:

• Surgery: Removing part or all of the thyroid gland.
• Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
• Thyroid Hormone Therapy: To replace hormones lost during surgery and prevent cancer recurrence.
• External Beam Radiation Therapy: Targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours.

Impact on Patients
Thyroid cancer diagnosis and treatment can have significant physical, emotional, and social impacts on patients. However, many patients with thyroid cancer have a good prognosis, especially when diagnosed early and treated appropriately. Regular follow-up care and monitoring are essential to detect any recurrence or complications early.

In Conclusion-

In conclusion, understanding thyroid cancer and its impact is vital for raising awareness, promoting early detection, and improving patient outcomes. At Horizon Group of Hospitals, we are committed to providing comprehensive care, advanced treatment options, and support for individuals affected by thyroid cancer. Through education, research, and patient-centred care, we strive to make meaningful progress in the fight against thyroid cancer.

For more information about thyroid cancer diagnosis, and treatment options, or to schedule a consultation, please visit our website or contact Horizon Group of Hospitals today.