| Thyroid Cancer Basics |
| A butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, the thyroid plays an important role in a person’s well-being. Like the pituitary gland, it is part of the endocrine system, which regulates specific body functions. The thyroid generates hormones that control the body’s heart rate, blood pressure, temperature and metabolism.
Thyroid cancer develops when cells of the thyroid grow uncontrollably. Fortunately, most thyroid tumors are benign (non-cancerous).
Cancer of the thyroid is uncommon, accounting for about 1% of all cancers diagnosed. However, it has become the 8th most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Fortunately for those with the disease, there’s hope. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, precise treatment and scheduled follow-up can result in a healthy future.
Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer
As with other cancers, early detection is an important factor for successful treatment. Symptoms should be given prompt attention. They include:
- A lump on the side of the neck
- Hoarseness of the voice
- Difficulty swallowing
Those who have experienced prior exposure to radiation in the head and neck region are at particular risk.
Diagnosing Thyroid Cancer
M. D. Anderson physicians use a blood test and ultrasound to characterize the tumor and determine the function level of the thyroid. A simple outpatient procedure known as a needle biopsy (tissue sample) helps them make a precise diagnosis. |
| Thyroid Cancer Treatment at M. D. Anderson |
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Multidisciplinary Care
Teams of physicians from from the departments of Endocrine Neoplasia & Hormonal Disorders, Head & Neck Surgery and Surgical Endocrinology are experienced in the management of the whole spectrum of thyroid cancers including papillary, follicular, medullary and anaplastic types.
Thyroid cancer patients are treated in our Endocrine Center.
Pediatric patients are treated in our Children's Cancer Hospital.
Multimodality Treatment
The primary treatment methods for thyroid cancer are:
- Thyroidectomy - surgery to remove the cancerous gland
- Radioactive iodine - used to destroy any cancerous cells remaining in the body after surgery
- Thyroid hormone suppression therapy
M. D. Anderson’s clinical researchers have demonstrated that this three-step protocol is highly successful for patients with papillary or follicular thyroid cancers. However, when these cancers have metastasized (spread) beyond the thyroid, the cancer may not absorb enough iodine. In this case, M. D. Anderson experts will consider a more aggressive approach to eliminate the cancer. For those with medullary thyroid cancer, most patients are successfully treated with surgery alone.
Further treatments may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or a combination of the two treatments. For some patients, care is provided in clinical trials evaluating new therapies for advanced thyroid cancer.
Followup Care
At M. D. Anderson, caring for cancer means caring for our patients after they have left the center. Because the thyroid has been removed, physicians will prescribe a daily dose of thyroid hormone in the form of a tablet to maintain normal metabolic functions. Followup visits and routine exams will be scheduled to regulate the body’s hormone level and to ensure that those who once were with cancer remain without. |
| Thyroid Cancer Education & Support |
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 Patient Power: Advances in the Treatment of Thyroid and Parathyroid Tumors (1:05:24)
Common endocrine cancers include those of the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands. Learn about new, less invasive surgical options and other new treatments for endocrine cancers. (February 2008)
Download / Listen
 Thyroid Cancer (February 2008)
Patient Story
"Cancer made me realize that life isn't guaranteed, and you should spend more time thinking about how you've been blessed."
Read Michael Foreman's Story
Survivor Support
M. D. Anderson Educational Resources
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