Thyroid Cancer- Types
Thyroid cancer is classified into four categories. However, the problem is that it does not show signs in the early stages. As a result, it is critical to be aware of thyroid cancer’s potential signs and symptoms to seek medical attention if necessary. The following are the several forms of thyroid cancer:
• Papillary Thyroid Cancer- This type of thyroid cancer accounts for around 80% to 85% of all diagnosed cases. It also has a high cure rate, making it one of the more manageable forms!
• Follicular Cancer- Follicular cancer, also known as Hurthle cell thyroid cancer, is most commonly associated with a Hurthles gene mutation. Though it is a rare variety, it is hazardous since it can spread to other body parts via the bloodstream. It features an aggressive advancement style.
• Medullary Thyroid Cancer- Although it affects less than 3% of all malignancies and may spread to neighbouring lymph nodes, it is hazardous if not appropriately treated with surgery or radiation therapy!
• Anaplastic Thyroid cancer- Thyroid cancer has a poor prognosis and becomes increasingly resistant to chemotherapy as it advances. This category, commonly known as “Anaplastic cancer,” affects less than 2% of thyroid cancer patients. This type is the fastest and most aggressive.
Thyroid Cancer Symptoms
You should see a doctor immediately if you see any of these symptoms. In some situations, these symptoms may be caused by a benign (non-cancerous) ailment, such as an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter). Only a medical professional, however, can give an exact diagnosis. Thyroid cancer symptoms include the following:
• A swelling or lump in the neck, jaw, or throat
• A persistent cough not caused by a respiratory tract illness or a cold.
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness or changes in voice
• Neck or throat pain
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Risk elements
• Not only are women more likely than males to develop thyroid cancer, but they also develop it at a younger age. According to the National Cancer Institute, being female and having developed this condition is connected with being between the ages of 20 and 35, especially if you are overweight.
• Thyroid cancer can be caused by radiation exposure. People exposed to Chornobyl had higher illness rates, but researchers are unsure how long this effect will remain. Goiter has been around for a long time and is still prevalent among humans. People with a family history of goiters or thyroid cancer may notice an enlarged neck as youngsters before their symptoms appear on ultrasound scans.
• If you or a family member has been diagnosed with medullary thyroid cancer, a blood test to look for the RET gene mutation is available. You are more likely to get medullary thyroid carcinoma if you have a family member with the disease.
• Low iodine levels are a risk factor for follicular thyroid cancer, which causes cachexia and hypothyroidism.
Thyroid Cancer Prognosis and Treatment
The odds of survival are relatively good if identified early. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for thyroid cancer in all stages is approximately 98%. This, however, varies according to the location and kind of thyroid cancer. For example, the five-year survival rate for stage I papillary thyroid cancer is 100%, but only 50-60% for stage IV papillary thyroid cancer. Other factors influencing the prognosis include age, gender, and overall health.
The stage and kind of thyroid cancer will determine treatment. The purpose of therapy is to either cure or prevent cancer from spreading. In most circumstances, treatment is effective in accomplishing this. The purpose of therapy is to either fix or prevent cancer from spreading. In most cases, treatment is effective in meeting this goal. However, some people may develop cancer recurrence or metastasis (spreading cancer to other body parts).
Surgery, radiation treatment, hormone replacement therapy, external beam radiation, or chemotherapy can all be used to treat most thyroid malignancies. When treating thyroid cancer, surgery is usually the first line of treatment. Radiation therapy may treat cancer after surgery or some types of thyroid cancer that cannot be removed surgically. Chemotherapy is rarely used to treat the condition.
Final Thoughts
If you recognize any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to seek treatment from an oncologist. Dr. Kanury Rao, a well-known immunologist and cancer specialist, and his staff will assist you through this trying time. Thyroid cancer has a usually excellent and curable prognosis with proper therapy and surveillance. Thank you for your time!
Thyroid cancer arises from the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland, which produces hormones to help the body’s metabolism, is positioned below Adam’s apple near the base of the neck. Dr. Kanury Rao is a well-known immunologist with extensive knowledge of immunology and its therapeutics.
