Fortunately, it is usually not lethal but is very aggressive. Because of this, it is often difficult to treat. Most people will need surgery to remove the affected portion of the thyroid, and in many cases, no other treatment is necessary. However, early detection is important for a good prognosis. Here are some things to look for.
In early stages, anaplastic thyroid cancer is treated with total thyroidectomy. It can affect other structures in the neck. Radioactive iodine therapy, however, does not work for undifferentiated cells. Sometimes, anticancer drugs are used in combination with surgery. Anticancer drugs can also be used to shrink the tumors. If these treatments don’t work, they may be combined with surgery. Patients should talk to their doctors for more details.
The risk of thyroid cancer is heightened by radiation exposure, which includes being exposed to ionizing radiation during childhood. Exposure to radiation from atomic weapons testing is also a risk factor. Exposure to radiation increases the risk of thyroid cancer by five to 10 years. In addition, it runs in families, but is rare. Having a parent or sibling with thyroid cancer, or inheriting a genetic condition that increases the risk, such as Leukemia, can increase your risk.
Thyroid cancer can be expensive, and young adults are at risk for bankruptcy if they don’t have health insurance. Because thyroid cancer can negatively affect a person’s ability to work, many young adults with the disease file for bankruptcy. If you’re diagnosed with thyroid cancer, make sure you have someone to help you examine medical bills and engage with your health insurance provider. Then, you can get a better understanding of your insurance coverage and determine how to maximize your financial resources for the treatment of thyroid cancer.
The likelihood of developing thyroid cancer depends on a number of factors, including age, family history, and other non-cancerous conditions. In addition, women are at higher risk for developing the disease than men, and it tends to occur in the reproductive years. Men, on the other hand, are at highest risk for this cancer when they are 80 years old. It’s therefore important to discuss any family history with your doctor as this can increase your risk of developing the disease.
The next step in diagnosing thyroid cancer is to perform a biopsy. This procedure uses a small needle to remove a piece of thyroid tissue and examine it under a microscope. This way, your doctor can determine whether the cancer has spread to other areas of the body. A biopsy also helps your doctor determine what treatment option would be best for your condition. You may need surgery if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes. This is the best time to discuss treatment options with your doctor.
While the majority of people with this condition are cured of their cancer, a small minority will have recurring cases for years. Early detection is vital and treatment options can be tailored to the individual. Thyroid cancer is highly treatable if it is detected in its early stages. However, it is important to remember that, although thyroid cancer is highly treatable, it can come back later. A cancerous mass in your thyroid should be removed as soon as possible.
