Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the cells of the thyroid gland. There are several types of thyroid cancer. Some grow very slowly while others can be very aggressive. Most cases of thyroid cancer can be cured.
The number of patients with thyroid cancer is increasing year by year. It is believed that this is due to the possibility of new technologies that allow the detection of very small thyroid formations. In Kazakhstan, more than 700 new cases of thyroid cancer are registered annually, in 85-90% of cases it is detected in women.
Causes of the disease and risk factors:
Thyroid cancer occurs when thyroid cells undergo genetic changes (mutations). Mutations allow cells to grow and multiply rapidly. Accumulating abnormal thyroid cells form a tumor.
Factors that may increase the risk of thyroid cancer include:
Female. Thyroid cancer is more common in women than in men.
Exposure to high levels of radiation. Radiation therapy to the head and neck increases the risk of thyroid cancer.
Some hereditary genetic syndromes. Genetic syndromes that increase the risk of developing thyroid cancer include familial medullary thyroid cancer, multiple endocrine neoplasia, Cowden's syndrome, and familial adenomatous polyposis.
Symptoms:
Thyroid cancer usually causes no signs or symptoms in the early stages of the disease. As thyroid cancer grows, it can cause:
a lump (nodule) that can be felt through the skin on the neck
changes in your voice, including increased hoarseness;
difficulty swallowing;
pain in the neck and throat;
swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
Diagnosis of thyroid cancer:
Physical examination. This is a doctor's examination during which physical changes in the thyroid gland are assessed and a question is asked - including risk factors such as excessive exposure to radiation and a family history of thyroid tumors.
Blood test for thyroid hormones. Blood tests help determine if the thyroid gland is working properly.
Fine needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid gland. This is taking a sample of thyroid tissue by inserting a thin needle into the pathological area of the thyroid gland. In this case, the needle is installed under the control of an ultrasonic sensor - for accurate insertion of the needle into the target. Tissue samples obtained with a needle are analyzed in a laboratory to look for cancer cells.
Various imaging studies. These are techniques that allow you to determine whether the cancer has spread beyond the thyroid gland. Methods include ultrasound (ultrasound), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET).
Genetic testing. Some people with thyroid cancer may have genetic changes that may be associated with other forms of endocrine cancer. If you have a family history of thyroid cancer, your doctor may recommend genetic testing to identify genes that increase your risk of cancer.
Recommendations for the prevention of thyroid cancer:
Do everything you can to maintain your health.
Eat a healthy diet, include as many fruits and vegetables as possible in your diet, be physically active, try to get enough sleep.
If you have any suspicions or questions, please contact our clinic at the Call Center number 8(7172)702-911. Here you can get qualified advice from an oncologist, the whole range of diagnostic services and the definition of treatment tactics.