Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. The thyroid plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature through hormone production. Thyroid cancer is relatively rare compared to other cancers but has shown increasing incidence rates globally. Most thyroid cancers are highly treatable, especially when diagnosed early.

Types of Thyroid Cancer

1. Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC):

• The most common type, accounting for about 80-85% of cases.

• Usually grows slowly and has an excellent prognosis.

• Often spreads to nearby lymph nodes but is rarely fatal.

2. Follicular Thyroid Cancer (FTC):

• Accounts for about 10-15% of cases.

• More likely to spread to distant organs like the lungs or bones.

• A subtype, Hurthle cell carcinoma, is more aggressive.

3. Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC):

• Accounts for 3-5% of cases.

• Arises from C cells that produce calcitonin (a hormone involved in calcium regulation).

• Can occur sporadically or as part of genetic syndromes like Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN).

4. Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC):

• Rare, accounting for less than 2% of cases.

• Extremely aggressive and difficult to treat.

• Typically affects older individuals.

5. Thyroid Lymphoma:

• A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that arises in the thyroid.

Risk Factors

1. Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:

• Gender: More common in women than men.

• Age: Peaks in people aged 30-50 for papillary and follicular cancer; medullary and anaplastic types are more common in older individuals.

• Family History:

• Genetic mutations (e.g., RET proto-oncogene in medullary thyroid cancer).

• A family history of thyroid cancer or genetic syndromes like MEN2.

2. Modifiable Risk Factors:

• Radiation Exposure:

• Previous radiation therapy to the neck or exposure to nuclear fallout.

• Iodine Deficiency/Excess:

• Iodine levels can influence the risk of follicular and papillary thyroid cancers.

3. Underlying Thyroid Disorders:

• Chronic thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) increases the risk of thyroid lymphoma.

Symptoms

Many thyroid cancers are asymptomatic in early stages and are discovered during routine neck examinations or imaging for other reasons. Common symptoms include:

• A lump or swelling in the neck.

• Difficulty swallowing or breathing.

• Hoarseness or voice changes.

• Persistent cough not related to a respiratory infection.

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Advanced Symptoms:

• Pain in the neck or throat.

• Symptoms of metastasis (e.g., bone pain or difficulty breathing due to lung involvement).

Staging

Thyroid cancer is staged using the TNM system:

• T: Size and extent of the primary tumor.

• N: Spread to regional lymph nodes.

• M: Presence of distant metastases.

Stages range from Stage I (localized) to Stage IV (advanced/metastatic).

Our comprehensive evaluation process includes:

• Expert physical examination
• Advanced ultrasound imaging by specialized sonologists
• Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC)
• Molecular testing for genetic markers
• Advanced imaging with CT, MRI, and PET scanning
• Blood calcitonin and calcium level testing

Treatment approaches are tailored to each patient's specific condition:

• Total or partial thyroidectomy with precision techniques
• Minimally invasive surgical approaches
• Advanced surgical navigation systems
• Radioactive iodine therapy
• Targeted molecular therapies
• Hormone replacement therapy

Proton Therapy offers significant advantages in thyroid cancer treatment:

• Higher precision in targeting tumor cells
• Reduced radiation to vital structures like esophagus and trachea
• Minimal impact on swallowing and speech
• Better preservation of quality of life
• Reduced risk of secondary complications

Prognosis

• Papillary and Follicular Thyroid Cancer:

• Excellent prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of >95%, especially in early stages.

• Medullary Thyroid Cancer:

• Prognosis depends on early detection and genetic factors.

• Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer:

• Poor prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of <10% due to rapid progression.

Prevention and Risk Reduction

1. Avoid Radiation Exposure:

• Minimize unnecessary radiation to the neck, especially in children.

2. Maintain Iodine Balance:

• Adequate iodine intake through diet or supplements.

3. Genetic Counseling:

• For individuals with a family history or genetic predisposition (e.g., MEN2 syndrome).

4. Early Evaluation of Thyroid Nodules:

• Regular check-ups for individuals at risk.