THYROID CANCER
26 Jul 2019
ABSTRACT –
Thyroid cancer affects thyroid gland, a butterfly shaped gland to control metabolism located in the lower-front of the neck by unusual and continuous multiplication of cells which leads to the formation of tumor. Although, it can be cured as it is one of the treatable cancer if gets diagnosed on time.
Types –
- Papillary Cancer
- Follicular Cancer
- Medullary Cancer
- Anaplastic Cancer
- Thyroid Lymphoma
CAUSES –
The cause of thyroid cancer is not clear but the following can be one of the factor:
- Genetic mutations
- Harmful industry radiations and toxic chemicals
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
- Pain in neck and throat
- Lump formation
- Difficulty in gulping
- Voice change with more huskiness
- Cough
COMPLICATIONS –
Thyroid cancer can return despite treatment as well and can affect:
- Lymph Nodes
- Other body organs
DIAGNOSIS –
- Physical Examination
- Blood Tests
- Genetic Tests
- Thyroid Tissue Biopsy
- Imaging tests like CT Scan, Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
TREATMENT –
- Thyroid Hormone Therapy
- Radioactive Iodine Treatment contains high doses of radioactive iodine in the form of capsules or liquid. Although it also has some side effects like nausea, dry eyes etc.
- External Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery in severe cases
RISK FACTORS –
- High radiation prone areas
- Other hereditary and genetic syndromes
PREVENTION –
- People with hereditary gene mutation are often advised to go for thyroid surgery to prevent medullary thyroid cancer.
- People near nuclear power plants can take potassium iodide medicines to prevent thyroid related issues.
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
- This form of cancer is seen more in young children than adults.
- Females are around three times more likely to get thyroid cancer than males.