Published: 18 Jun 2025

ICD9: 193      ICD10: C73      ICD11: 2D10.Z

Thyroid cancer, specifically thyroid carcinoma, is a type of cancer that develops in the thyroid gland.
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.

Here's a breakdown of what's important to know:

Key Aspects of Thyroid Carcinoma:

Origin: Arises from the cells of the thyroid gland.
Types: There are several types of thyroid carcinoma, with the most common being:

Papillary Thyroid Cancer: The most common type, often slow-growing and highly treatable.
Follicular Thyroid Cancer: Also generally slow-growing and treatable.
Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Less common, originates from C cells (which produce calcitonin). It can sometimes be hereditary.
Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: The rarest and most aggressive type. It grows rapidly and is difficult to treat.

Causes: The exact cause is often unknown, but risk factors can include:

Radiation exposure (especially during childhood)
Family history of thyroid cancer
Certain genetic conditions
Iodine deficiency (less common in developed countries with iodized salt)

Symptoms: Often, early-stage thyroid cancer has no symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include:

A lump (nodule) in the neck, which may be felt by the patient or found during a routine exam.
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Hoarseness or voice changes
Difficulty swallowing
Neck pain
Persistent cough

Diagnosis:

Physical Exam: Doctor will examine the neck for lumps or enlarged lymph nodes.
Blood Tests: To check thyroid hormone levels. Calcitonin and CEA can be checked to rule out medullary cancer.
Ultrasound: To visualize the thyroid gland and nodules.
Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: A small needle is used to extract cells from a nodule for examination under a microscope. This is the most important test to determine if a nodule is cancerous.
Radioactive Iodine Scan: Used in some cases to evaluate the function of the thyroid gland and detect if cancer has spread.
Genetic Testing: Can be done to check for gene mutations associated with medullary thyroid cancer.

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

Surgery: Typically, the main treatment. This can involve removing part or all of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy).
Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Used to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue after surgery, including cancer cells that may have spread.
Thyroid Hormone Therapy: After thyroid removal, patients need to take synthetic thyroid hormone to replace what the thyroid gland used to produce. This also helps suppress the growth of any remaining cancer cells.
External Beam Radiation Therapy: Used less commonly, typically for more advanced or aggressive cancers.
Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth. Used for advanced cancers that don't respond to other treatments.
Chemotherapy: Rarely used, typically only for very advanced anaplastic thyroid cancer.

Prognosis: The prognosis for most types of thyroid cancer, especially papillary and follicular, is generally very good, with high survival rates when detected early and treated appropriately. Anaplastic thyroid cancer has a poorer prognosis.

Important Considerations:

Nodules are Common: Many people have thyroid nodules, but the vast majority are benign (non-cancerous).
Early Detection is Key: Regular checkups and being aware of any changes in the neck can help with early detection.
Individualized Treatment: Treatment plans are tailored to the specific type and stage of the cancer and the individual patient.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances.