About Thyroid Cancer

by Jerry Knight

Being diagnosed with any type of cancer can be a scary experience. However, some cancers have a higher success rate than others and thyroid cancer happens to be one of those cancers. Those who are diagnosed with thyroid cancer have about a 90% chance of being given a good or excellent chance of full recovery.

The thyroid is located in front of the trachea and is described as a 'butterfly shaped gland.' The purpose of the thyroid is to secrete a thyroid hormone that regulates heart rate, blood pressure and weight.

Thyroid cancer generally appears as one of four types of cancer: papillary cancer, follicular cancer, medullary cancer and anaplastic cancer. Of the above, most people who develop thyroid cancer develop papillary cancer.

The National Cancer Institutes Records estimate close to 45,000 cases of thyroid cancer being detected in 2010. Of those, only approximately 1,600 will be fatal.

When cancer attacks the thyroid, symptoms may appear as a swelling or blockage of the airway or digestive tract, swollen or enlarged lymph nodes, pain in the neck and swelling in the neck area. A hoarseness when trying to speak may also be an indication of thyroidcancer.

Some people have a higher chance of developing this type of cancer. The following factors do not determine whether or not a person will get thyroid cancer, but are worth noting as factors that may increase the risk: those between twenty five and sixty five are more likely to develop this type of cancer over other age groups. Women may have an increased chance of having thyroid nodules, while men have a higher risk for the actual cancer. Genetics also plays a part. Those with families who have goiters or a history of thyroid cancer may have an increased risk factor.

In order to diagnose thyroid cancer, a specialist should be consulted. The first step is a physical exam. The doctor will most likely ask about family history and do a visual exam. If there appears to be a problem, a laryngoscope may be used. This is a flexible tube with a light and lens. The tube is inserted down the throat to allow the physician to view the area. Other tests that might be conducted include blood testing, ultra sounds, CT scans, MRIs, Petscans as well as others. A biopsy is when a physician takes a sample of the growth for testing.

Of the four types of thyroid cancer previously mentioned, anaplastic cancer is the most dangerous. Cure rates with this type of cancer are low and the thyroid along with surrounding lymph nodes are often removed.

As with any type of cancer, early detection increases odds of survival. Those who experience hoarseness, any type of swelling of the thyroid or the lymph nodes are encouraged to see a physician as soon as possible. The high success rates of treatment for thyroid cancershould be a motivating factor to get help as soon as possible.

About the Author:

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