"How long can someone with thyroid cancer survive without surgery?"
The life expectancy of thyroid cancer patients without surgery depends on factors such as the pathological type, stage, and whether active treatment is received. Generally, if thyroid cancer is detected early and is an early-stage lesion, the prognosis after surgical removal is favorable and may not affect lifespan. Here are the details based on different types of thyroid cancer:
1. Papillary Carcinoma
A type of differentiated thyroid cancer with low malignancy. If it is in the early stage without lymph node or distant metastasis, it is usually curable and does not affect the patient's survival time.
2. Follicular Carcinoma
A moderately malignant type of thyroid cancer. If it is in the early stage without lymph node or distant metastasis, surgical removal can be performed. With active treatment, patients generally have a longer survival time.
3. Medullary Carcinoma
A low-grade malignant tumor. If it is in the early stage without lymph node or distant metastasis, surgical removal can also be performed. Due to its low malignancy, it has a lesser impact on the patient's survival time.
4. Anaplastic Carcinoma
A highly malignant tumor. If it is in the early stage without lymph node or distant metastasis, surgical removal can still be considered. However, due to its high malignancy, it has a significant impact on the patient's survival time.
It is recommended that thyroid cancer patients maintain good lifestyle and dietary habits, avoid excessive fatigue and stress, and maintain a positive mindset. They should actively cooperate with treatment under the guidance of their doctors.