"Is Thyroid Cancer No Longer Considered Cancer?"
Thyroid Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Thyroid cancer, arising from the follicular epithelium or parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland, is a malignant tumor that, though labeled as "not cancer" in some contexts, falls under the broader category of cancers and is considered a relatively serious condition. Clinically, thyroid cancer is often attributed to factors such as ionizing radiation, genetics, gender, iodine intake, radiation injury, and immune system status. It can manifest in patients through symptoms like neck lumps, hoarseness, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), dyspnea (difficulty breathing), among others.
Treatment primarily involves surgical resection, often followed by adjuvant therapies like radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
Neck Lump: Located in the neck, the thyroid gland's position makes neck lumps a presenting symptom of thyroid cancer. These lumps are often hard, irregular in surface, and move with swallowing motions.
Hoarseness: If the tumor invades the recurrent laryngeal nerve, it can cause hoarseness. Invasion or compression of the esophagus may also lead to dysphagia.
Dysphagia: Tumor compression or infiltration of the esophagus can result in difficulty swallowing.
Dyspnea: Compression of the trachea by the tumor can narrow the airway, causing respiratory distress.
Other Symptoms: In cases of lung metastasis, symptoms may include cough, shortness of breath, and hemoptysis. Bone metastasis may manifest as joint pain or pelvic pain.
Treatment of Thyroid Cancer
Prompt surgical intervention is crucial for patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Surgical options include total thyroidectomy and near-total thyroidectomy, accompanied by lymph node dissection. Some patients may require adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy post-surgery to curb cancer cell proliferation.
With active and effective treatment, thyroid cancer patients can often expect improved quality of life and extended survival time. Maintaining a positive mindset, adhering to treatment plans, and undergoing regular follow-ups are all vital for these patients.
