The exact cause of thyroid cancer is not always known, but several factors may increase risk:

• Radiation exposure, especially during childhood

• Family history of thyroid cancer or certain genetic conditions

• Female gender (thyroid cancer is more common in women)

• Age (more common after age 30, though it can occur at any age)

• Iodine deficiency or excess (less common in developed countries)

Thyroid cancer is typically detected through a neck exam, imaging studies, or incidentally during evaluation for thyroid nodules.

Thyroid cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, some people may experience:

• A lump or swelling in the neck

• Hoarseness or voice changes

• Difficulty swallowing

• Neck or throat pain

• Enlarged lymph nodes

• Persistent cough not related to illness

Keep in mind that most thyroid nodules are benign (non-cancerous), but any suspicious growth should be evaluated by a specialist.

There are several types of thyroid cancer, each with its own behavior and treatment approach:

• Papillary thyroid cancer – The most common and typically slow-growing type

• Follicular thyroid cancer – Slightly more aggressive but often treatable

• Medullary thyroid cancer – May be genetic and requires specialized testing

• Anaplastic thyroid cancer – Rare and aggressive, requiring immediate attention

Our comprehensive diagnostic approach may include:

• Neck ultrasound to evaluate thyroid nodules and lymph nodes

• Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) to determine if a nodule is cancerous

• Thyroid function tests to assess hormone levels

• Genetic testing when appropriate (especially for medullary thyroid cancer)

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as individual factors. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid (thyroidectomy) is often the first step in treating thyroid cancer.

• Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Used after surgery in certain types of thyroid cancer to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells.

• Thyroid Hormone Therapy: Following surgery, patients take synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine) to maintain normal hormone levels and suppress cancer recurrence.

• Targeted Therapy or Chemotherapy: For more aggressive or advanced cases, additional treatments may be needed.

• Ongoing Monitoring: Long-term follow-up with blood tests and imaging ensures continued health and helps detect any recurrence early.