What is Thyroid Cancer?

It is a malignant tumor that develops in the thyroid gland, which is located in the front of the neck and plays a role in regulating metabolism and body temperature. The thyroid gland resembles a butterfly shape and controls many functions of the body through hormone production. What is thyroid cancer?? It is cancer that occurs when cells in the thyroid gland multiply uncontrollably. It usually responds well to treatment if diagnosed at an early stage.

What are the symptoms of thyroid cancer?

In the early stages, it usually does not show any obvious symptoms and therefore can be difficult to detect. However, in the later stages, some signs and symptoms may appear.

• One of the most common symptoms is a lump in the neck or a mass felt in the thyroid gland. This mass is usually painless and can grow larger over time.
• Another symptom is hoarseness. Since the thyroid gland is located in an area close to the vocal cords, the tumor can press on the vocal cords as it grows. This can cause the voice to deepen or become hoarse. Symptoms such as a persistent cough or a feeling that something is stuck in the throat may also be seen.
• Difficulty swallowing is also an important symptom. When a tumor presses on the esophagus, it can be difficult to swallow food. Shortness of breath can occur when a tumor presses on the trachea, making it difficult for patients to breathe.
• Neck pain can radiate to the ears and may be constant. In advanced stages, swelling of the neck lymph nodes may occur. Some patients also experience weight loss, fatigue, or abnormalities in body functions.

Each of the symptoms may not be typical. However, when such symptoms occur, it is important to consult a doctor for early diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis can increase the chance of success in the treatment process.

How Is Thyroid Cancer Diagnosed?

Thyroid cancer The diagnosis is made through a physical exam, imaging tests, and biopsy. First, when a patient sees a health care provider, the doctor will perform a physical exam. If an abnormal growth or hardness is noted, further testing is performed.

One of the most commonly used diagnostic methods Thyroid ultrasonographyThis method provides a detailed image of the thyroid gland using sound waves. Ultrasound is used to examine the size, shape and structure of nodules. If a suspicious nodule is detected, a biopsy may be performed as the next step.

FNAB is one of the most reliable methods for diagnosing thyroid cancer. During this procedure, a cell sample is taken from the suspicious nodule with the help of a thin needle. The cells are examined in the laboratory to investigate the presence of cancer cells. This test is of great importance in determining the type and stage of the disease.

In addition, blood tests may be performed to evaluate thyroid function. Thyroid hormone and stimulating hormone levels and thyroid gland activity are evaluated.

If cancer suspicion still persists, CT, MRI or PET Advanced imaging methods such as can be used. These methods help determine the spread of cancer and the stage of the disease.

What is Thyroid Cancer? Treatment Methods

Thyroid cancer, is a type of cancer that occurs when cells in the thyroid gland multiply uncontrollably. The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that have functions in the body such as metabolism and energy production. Thyroid cancer is usually a slow-growing type of cancer, but some subtypes can be aggressive.

Thyroid cancer is divided into four main subtypes: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common and generally has the best prognosis. Early diagnosis of this cancer significantly increases the success rate of treatment.

Thyroidectomy is the most common surgical treatment for cancer. During this procedure, part or all of the thyroid gland is removed. If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, the lymph nodes in the neck may also be removed.

RFA is a procedure used after surgery or in some cases to shrink cancer. Radioactive iodine treatment is used in patients with papillary and follicular thyroid cancer. Radioactive iodine targets thyroid cells in the body and destroys cancerous cells.

After the thyroid gland is removed, patients receive thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which is necessary to provide the hormones the body needs and suppress TSH levels.

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are used in aggressive and advanced thyroid cancers. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can be applied together, especially in treatment-resistant types such as anaplastic.

What is thyroid cancer?? It is a type of cancer that can be treated with early diagnosis. However, the treatment plan is shaped according to the patient's condition and the subtype of cancer. Many patients can achieve successful results with various methods. However, aggressive treatment options may be required in advanced stages.