Thyroid Cancer

Also known as: thyroid carcinoma, papillary carcinoma, follicular carcinoma

What is thyroid cancer?

The thyroid gland is a small organ in the neck that produces hormones that impact how your body uses energy. When a malignant growth occurs in the thyroid gland, this is known as thyroid cancer. Most cases of thyroid cancer are curable with treatment.

What causes thyroid cancer?

The cause of thyroid cancer is usually not clear. Women are more likely to get it than men. It’s also linked to radiation therapy in the head and neck, as well as certain rare genetic disorders.

What are the symptoms of thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer typically does not cause symptoms at first. Over time, it can lead to hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, pain in the neck and throat or a lump you can feel through the skin on your neck.

How can thyroid cancer affect children?

Thyroid cancer is rare in children. When it does occur, the symptoms and potential treatments are similar to adults.

What are thyroid cancer treatments?

Potential options include surgery, thyroid hormone therapy, and some patients may need radioactive iodine treatment. As well as close follow-up with laboratory testing, neck and head ultrasounds, and occasional scans.

Reviewed by: Alejandro Diaz, MD

This page was last updated on: June 30, 2022 12:11 PM