Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. It is relatively uncommon compared to other types of cancer but is usually treatable when detected early.
Types of Thyroid Cancer:
Papillary thyroid cancer: The most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases. It generally grows slowly and can spread to lymph nodes in the neck.
Follicular thyroid cancer: This type makes up about 15% of cases. It tends to spread to distant organs, such as the lungs and bones.
Medullary thyroid cancer: About 3-5% of thyroid cancers are medullary thyroid cancer, which develops from the C cells of the thyroid gland and can produce high levels of calcitonin.
Anaplastic thyroid cancer: A rare and aggressive type that spreads rapidly and is often difficult to treat.
Treatment Options:
Surgery: The primary treatment for most types of thyroid cancer involves surgically removing part or all of the thyroid gland.
Radioactive iodine therapy: Used after surgery to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue and cancer cells.
Thyroid hormone therapy: To replace hormones and suppress the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which can stimulate the growth of any remaining cancer cells.
External beam radiation therapy: Used in some cases to target cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Targeted therapy and chemotherapy: Used for advanced or aggressive thyroid cancers that do not respond to other treatments.
Living with Thyroid Cancer:
Living with thyroid cancer often involves ongoing monitoring and follow-up care to check for recurrence or spread. Many people with thyroid cancer can lead normal, healthy lives with proper treatment and follow-up care.
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