Thyroid Cancer
Source: MedlinePlus Health Topics, U.S. National Library of Medicine
What is thyroid cancer? Thyroid cancer is a cancer that starts in the tissues of the thyroid. Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. It makes hormones that control the way the body uses energy. These hormones affect nearly every organ in your body and control many of your body's most important functions. For example, they affect your breathing, heart rate, weight, digestion, and moods. What are the different types of thyroid cancer? There are different types of thyroid cancer; the main ones include: Differentiated thyroid cancer, which includes papillary cancer and follicular cancer Medullary thyroid cancer Anaplastic thyroid cancer Who is more likely to develop thyroid cancer? Certain people are more likely to develop thyroid cancer. Your risk is higher if you: Are between ages 25 and 65 Are a woman Are Asian Were exposed to certain types of radiation, including from radiation treatments to your head or neck as a child or from a radiation emergency Have had a goiter (enlarged thyroid) Having certain genetic conditions , including certain types of multiple endocrine neoplasia Have a family history of thyroid cancer or thyroid disease What are the symptoms of thyroid cancer? Thyroid cancer may not cause symptoms at first. It is sometimes found during a routine physical exam. You may get signs or symptoms as the cancer gets bigger. The symptoms may include: A lump (nodule) in the neck Trouble breathing Trouble swallowing Pain when swallowing Hoarseness or other changes to your voice that do not get better How is thyroid cancer diagnosed? To find out if you have thyroid cancer, your health care provider may use: A physical exam, including checking your neck for swelling, lumps, or anything that seems unusual A medical history Thyroid tests Other blood or imaging tests A biopsy What are the treatments for thyroid cancer? Treatment for thyroid cancer depends on the type of cancer you have and whether the cancer has spread. Often, more