Thyroid Cancer

Illustration of a highlighted thyroid gland in a human neck

Types, Symptoms, and Treatment

Thyroid cancer starts in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located at the front of your neck. Although hearing the word "cancer" can be frightening, thyroid cancer generally has an excellent prognosis, especially when detected early and treated effectively.

Types of Thyroid Cancer

There are several types of thyroid cancer, each with unique characteristics and outlooks:

  • Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC): This is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of cases. It usually grows slowly and has an excellent prognosis.

  • Follicular Thyroid Cancer (FTC): Making up about 5% of thyroid cancers, FTC also has a favorable outcome, though slightly less so than PTC.

  • Hürthle Cell Carcinoma: A variant of follicular cancer, it is rarer and can behave more aggressively.

  • Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC): Less common (around 2-4%), MTC can be hereditary and may require genetic testing to guide treatment.

  • Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC): Very rare and aggressive, this type requires prompt and intensive treatment.

What Causes Thyroid Cancer?

Several risk factors contribute to thyroid cancer, including:

  • Radiation Exposure: Particularly for Papillary Thyroid Cancer, exposure to ionizing radiation (like past radiation treatments or nuclear accidents) is a significant risk.

  • Genetics: Certain genetic mutations, such as those involving the BRAF or RET genes, increase the risk for specific types of thyroid cancer.

  • Diet and Environment: Low dietary iodine and obesity are also linked to increased risk.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Early thyroid cancer often presents no symptoms. However, common signs to watch for include:

  • A painless lump or swelling in the neck (thyroid nodules)

  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

  • Changes in voice, such as hoarseness

  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing

  • Persistent neck pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a doctor promptly for evaluation.

Diagnosing Thyroid Cancer

Doctors typically use several tests to diagnose thyroid cancer, such as:

  • Physical Examination: Checking for lumps or swelling in the thyroid.

  • Ultrasound: Imaging to identify characteristics of thyroid nodules.

  • Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: Sampling cells from a thyroid nodule to check for cancer.

  • Blood Tests: To measure thyroid function and specific cancer markers.

  • Genetic Testing: Particularly helpful for medullary thyroid cancer.

Person undergoing a thyroid ultrasound with a technician using a handheld device on the neck.

Thyroid ultrasound is the best imaging method to evaluate the thyroid

Ultrasound image showing a dark, irregular mass, possibly a thyroid nodule or lesion, with measurements marked by crosshair symbols.

Ultrasound image of a cancerous thyroid nodule

Effective Treatments for Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer treatments are generally very effective, especially when the cancer is detected early:

  • Surgery: Often the first and most important treatment, surgery can involve removing part or all of the thyroid gland.

  • Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy: Used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells, especially in papillary and follicular cancers.

  • Thyroid Hormone Therapy: Essential after thyroid removal, this helps maintain normal hormone levels and suppresses the growth of residual cancer cells.

  • Targeted Therapies: Advanced thyroid cancers may respond to targeted medications that attack specific genetic mutations.

  • Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy: Typically reserved for more aggressive or advanced cancers.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

The outlook for patients with thyroid cancer, particularly papillary and follicular types, is very positive. The five-year survival rate for these types is approximately 98.5%, and recurrence rates are low when properly treated. Regular follow-up visits and monitoring are essential for early detection if the cancer returns.

How Dr. Hasan Can Help

As an endocrinologist specializing in thyroid disorders, Dr. Hasan provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient's needs. From accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment plans, Dr. Hasan ensures that each patient receives compassionate, effective, and evidence-based care. He collaborates closely with thyroid cancer surgeons in the area, pathology labs, and imaging centers, recognizing that thyroid cancer patients commonly require a multidisciplinary, multispecialty approach to care. If you have concerns about thyroid cancer or symptoms related to your thyroid, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hasan to discuss your condition and explore the best options for your health and well-being.

Dr. Farhad Hasan serves patients across Western Pennsylvania, including the city of Pittsburgh and surrounding areas in Allegheny County such as Ross Township, McCandless, Pine, Marshall, Mars, Richland, Gibsonia, Wexford, Sewickley, Franklin Park, Hampton, Shaler, Findlay, Upper St. Clair, Robinson, North Fayette, Monroeville, and Moon Township. We also serve Butler County, covering Cranberry Township, Seven Fields, Zelienople, Butler, Harmony, and Evans city, as well as patients in nearby Washington County and Beaver County.