It occurs when cancerous cells grow in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck and produces hormones. This type of cancer usually progresses slowly and may not cause symptoms in the early stages. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, radiation exposure and female gender. Thyroid cancer can be treated with methods such as surgery, radioactive iodine therapy and hormone therapy. Early diagnosis is important.
What are the symptoms of thyroid cancer?
The most common symptom is a swelling or lump in the front of the neck or in the area where the thyroid gland is located. There may be discomfort or pain in the neck or throat. This pain may increase when swallowing or during head and neck movements. A large thyroid tumor can put pressure on the esophagus, causing difficulty swallowing. Hoarseness, hoarse voice, or voice changes are caused by pressure on the vocal cords due to thyroid cancer. Enlargement of the thyroid gland can put pressure on the respiratory tract, causing shortness of breath. Cancer can spread to the lymph nodes in the neck, which may manifest as swelling or enlargement of the lymph nodes. A general feeling of fatigue and loss of energy may be observed in some patients. Since the symptoms can be confused with other diseases, it is important for people who experience such symptoms to consult a specialist. Early diagnosis can increase the success of the treatment process.
What Causes Thyroid Cancer?
The risk of developing the disease increases in people with a family history of thyroid cancer. Some genetic syndromes, for example, Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) syndrome, may increase the risk. Radioactive radiation exposure to the thyroid gland may increase the risk. Radioactive treatment to the head and neck area during childhood increases the risk. It is more common in women than men. Additionally, it is generally more common in individuals between the ages of 30 and 60. Thyroid hormone levels and hormonal changes may play a role in its development. Particular attention is paid to the effect of the estrogen hormone. Insufficient iodine intake can affect the healthy functioning of the thyroid gland, which may increase the risk. It is also thought that excessive iodine intake may pose a risk in some cases. Individuals with nodules or other diseases in the thyroid gland may have a higher risk of developing it. While each of these factors may be effective in the development of thyroid cancer, some individuals may develop the disease without having any of these factors. Therefore, regular doctor check-ups and healthy lifestyle recommendations should be taken into account to reduce the risk.
How Is Thyroid Cancer Treated?
Surgical treatment is the most common form of treatment. Surgery is usually performed to remove cancerous thyroid tissue. This procedure may involve removing all (thyroidectomy) or part (lobectomy) of the thyroid gland. Surgery is determined according to the spread of the disease. Radiotherapy may be administered after surgery, especially if the risk of cancer spreading is high. This method uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. Sometimes it can also be used before surgery. In some types of thyroid cancer, especially the follicular type, a radioactive substance called iodine-131 is used. This treatment is used to destroy cancer cells remaining after surgery. If the entire thyroid gland has been removed, it is necessary to maintain body hormone balance. For this, thyroid hormones must be given. These hormones are used to balance the thyroid hormone level in the body. It is also used to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Chemotherapy or targeted therapies may also be used in some aggressive forms of cancer (for example, anaplastic thyroid cancer). These treatments aim to target cancer cells and stop their growth. The thyroid cancer treatment plan should be personalized for each patient. Therefore, it is necessary to obtain detailed information about treatment options. It is important to consult a specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment method.