Diagnosis and Management of Thyroid Cancer
The thyroid is an endocrine gland located in the human’s neck. It produces thyroxine to help maintain metabolic functions such as regulation of weight, blood pressure, pulses and metabolism.
Q2. What are the causes of thyroid cancer? Is it more common in certain types of people?
While its causes remain unidentified, certain populations are at higher risks of developing thyroid cancer. For example, those who have a family history of this condition, received radiotherapy in the neck for other conditions, or are working in frequent contact with radioactive substances are high risk groups. Survivors of nuclear disasters are also more prone to thyroid cancer.
Q3. What are the types of thyroid cancer? How are they diagnosed?
There are three main types of thyroid cancer. Differentiated thyroid cancer accounts for nearly 80% of cases. Most patients recover after treatment. Undifferentiated thyroid cancer makes up about 5% of cases. Patients often have poorer outcomes, a higher risk of recurrence, and a lower chance of cure. The third type is medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). It is usually hereditary, accounting for about 3% of cases. Treatment outcome is generally satisfactory.
Thyroid cancer is mainly diagnosed by three methods. The first one is clinical assessment, which involves evaluation of one’s medical history and physical examination to locate any lumps or tumours. Apart from clinical assessments, ultrasound is also used to determine the location, size, and invasiveness of the tumour as well as if metastasis occurs. Furthermore, needle aspiration with ultrasound guidance is performed to ensure that adequate cells are extracted for a pathological test to determine the cancer type.
Q4. How is thyroid cancer treated? What are the side effects of thyroidectomy? How does the removal of the thyroid affect the body?
The main treatment for thyroid cancer is surgery. Thyroidectomy is performed to remove the tumour and any nodal metastasis. It comes with two types of side effects. The common ones are wound, scarring, infection, inflammation and bleeding, but occurrence is rare. In case of total thyroidectomy, one’s thyroxine level may become very low, causing symptoms like fatigue, slow heartbeat, chills, etc. If blood calcium levels drop too low, one may experience spasms, limb numbness, or even cramps. These can be managed effectively with thyroxine supplements, calcium tablets and vitamin D supplements.
Q5. What is radioactive iodine therapy? What precautions should be taken during treatment?
If the tumour is severe, doctors may recommend radioactive iodine therapy after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Please note that the treatment is not suitable for pregnant women as it may harm the foetus. Avoid iodine-rich foods, such as seafood and seaweed, and suspend iodine supplementation before treatment. Drink plenty of water and urinate frequently to help excrete radioactive substances. Also avoid close contact with crowds and other family members, as it reduces their risk of exposure to radioactive substances.
Q6. Will thyroid nodules turn into cancer?
The existence of benign thyroid nodules does not increase the risk of cancer. If a benign nodule is found on the right, but not left side of thyroid, and does not grow in size over time while being monitored, the risk of developing thyroid cancer is equal on both sides. The existence of nodules does not increase the risk of carcinogenesis.
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