Opinion - (2023) Volume 7, Issue 2
Received: 31-May-2023, Manuscript No. IPRJO-23-16965; Editor assigned: 02-Jun-2023, Pre QC No. IPRJO-23-16965 (PQ); Reviewed: 16-Jun-2023, QC No. IPRJO-23-16965; Revised: 21-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. IPRJO-23-16965 (R); Published: 28-Jun-2023, DOI: 10.36648/iprjo-7.2.20
Thyroid cancer is a relatively rare but potentially serious form of cancer that affects the thyroid gland. While the exact causes of thyroid cancer remain unknown, various risk factors have been identified. This article aims to provide an overview of thyroid cancer, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options. The thyroid gland is shaped like a small butterfly and is usually located in the lower front part of the neck. It is a gland that controls metabolism. It also releases hormones that control many functions in the body, such as how energy is used, how heat is produced, and how oxygen is used.
The causes of thyroid cancer are not fully understood, but certain risk factors increase an individual’s likelihood of developing the disease. These risk factors include a family history of thyroid cancer, exposure to radiation, especially during childhood, and certain genetic conditions such as familial medullary thyroid cancer and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2. Thyroid cancer may not exhibit any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may experience the symptoms. A lump or swelling in the neck: This is one of the most common signs of thyroid cancer. It may be painless but gradually increases in size over time. Thyroid tumors can affect the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness or difficulty speaking. As the tumor grows, it may cause discomfort or difficulty while swallowing. Some individuals may experience pain or discomfort in the neck and throat area. Cancerous thyroid cells can spread to the nearby lymph nodes, causing them to become enlarged and palpable. It is important to note that these symptoms can also be the associated with various non-cancerous conditions. To diagnose thyroid cancer, healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tests, including: A thorough examination of the neck and thyroid gland is conducted to check for abnormalities or swelling. This imaging technique helps determine the size and nature of the thyroid nodule. A small sample of cells is extracted from the thyroid nodule using a thin needle and examined under a microscope to identify cancerous cells. Blood tests can measure the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone and other hormones to assess thyroid function. The most common treatment for thyroid cancer involves the surgical removal of the thyroid gland, known as a thyroidectomy. This treatment is administered after surgery. It involves the ingestion of a radioactive iodine pill, which selectively targets and eliminates cancer cells. In cases where cancer has spread to the nearby tissues or lymph nodes, high-energy X-rays are used to destroy cancer cells. Hormone replacement therapy: After a thyroidectomy, individuals require lifelong hormone replacement therapy to maintain the balance of thyroid hormones in the body.
Thyroid cancer, although relatively uncommon, requires prompt attention and early detection. Understanding the risk factors, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking medical advice are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The overall outlook for thyroid cancer is generally positive, with high survival rates. The 5-year survival rate for thyroid cancer is approximately 98%, indicating a favorable prognosis for most individuals.
Citation: Maria V (2023) Clinical Management of Differentiated Thyroid Cancer. Res J Onco. 7:20.
Copyright: © 2023 Maria V. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
