If you have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, you may have questions about treatment options. The National Cancer Institute, the federal government’s center for biomedical research, has developed an information summary, or PDQ, for people with thyroid cancer. PDQ summaries are independent reviews of medical literature and are not intended to be formal guidelines or recommendations. The information provided in this summary is current and based on available evidence. However, patients should remember that PDQ is not a substitute for professional care.
Your primary care physician will organise tests to determine the extent of your symptoms. If tests are negative, you’ll likely be referred to a specialist, such as an endocrine surgeon or endocrinologist. Depending on the stage of the cancer and whether the condition has spread, your health care provider will coordinate your care with other health professionals. During treatment, you might consult with an ENT surgeon, a nuclear medicine specialist, a head and neck surgeon, a speech therapist, or an ophthalmologist. Your treatment team may also consult with an ophthalmologist or a counsellor.
When considering thyroid cancer treatment, it is important to know that there are three different stages: Stage I, Stage II, and Stage III. Each stage is defined by the size of the tumor and the extent of its spread. While it is possible to treat a small tumor without any treatment, a large tumor that has spread to the neck may require surgery. The stage I stage is the most advanced, and a T2 stage is the lowest.
As you can see, the survival rates for thyroid cancer are much higher in heavier individuals than in non-overweight people. In fact, there seems to be a direct relationship between body weight and thyroid cancer risk. The earlier you begin treatment, the more likely you are to have a cancer-free thyroid. Thankfully, many of these types of thyroid cancer are treatable. However, if you’re unsure about whether your symptoms are symptoms of thyroid cancer, contact your doctor. You’ll get helpful information on getting a second opinion, and be able to deal with your condition.
While there are no definitive causes for thyroid cancer, it is a disease that can have a significant impact on your life. Early detection and treatment is the best way to minimize the chances of recurrence. It’s also important to note that some thyroid cancers are more likely to spread than others, so it is crucial to undergo regular screenings and get tested for the disease. For example, if you’re exposed to radiation in the head or neck, you’re more likely to develop thyroid cancer than those with no exposure to radiation.
There are many tests and procedures that can diagnose thyroid cancer. Obtaining a biopsy sample is vital because a biopsy can affect your prognosis and treatment options. However, the results of the biopsy should be read by a qualified pathologist who understands thyroid disease. The type of thyroid cancer that you have will also determine your treatment options. There are many types of thyroid cancer, which is why it’s important to consult a doctor if you think you might have a lump in your throat.
