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Thyroid Cancer

Condition Basics

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What is thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in your thyroid gland, Opens dialog. These cells often form small tumors called nodules. But most thyroid nodules aren't cancer and don't cause harm.

There are several different types of thyroid cancer. The treatment for thyroid cancer is often successful with the right treatment plan.

What causes it?

Experts don't know what causes thyroid cancer. Like other cancers, changes in the DNA, Opens dialog of your cells seem to play a role. These DNA changes may include changes that are inherited as well as those that happen as you get older.

What are the symptoms?

Many people don't have any symptoms when they are diagnosed with thyroid cancer. This cancer is often found when an imaging test is done for another reason. The most common symptom is a lump or swelling in your neck. Other symptoms may include pain or trouble swallowing. Or your voice may be hoarse.

How is it diagnosed?

If you have a lump in your neck that could be thyroid cancer, you'll likely have a fine-needle biopsy. This test may be all that is needed to diagnose thyroid cancer. In some cases, a molecular test or surgery will also be done to find out if a lump (nodule) is thyroid cancer.

How is thyroid cancer treated?

Treatment for thyroid cancer often includes surgery, radioactive iodine, Opens dialog, and thyroid hormone therapy. It may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy, Opens dialog. Very low-risk thyroid cancer may not need treatment right away. With regular checkups and tests, your doctor can closely watch the cancer for any signs of growth (active surveillance).

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Current as of: October 25, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.