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Thyroid Cancer
Cancer in the thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck. Generally very treatable.
Thyroid Cancer Summary
The thyroid makes hormones regulating metabolism. Most thyroid cancers (like papillary) grow slowly and have an excellent prognosis if treated properly.
Signs in the Neck
- A lump or nodule that can be felt through the skin of the neck.
- Changes in voice, including persistent hoarseness.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).
- Pain in the neck and throat.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
- Persistent cough not related to a cold.
Effective Treatments
Standard approach involves surgery often followed by hormone therapy.
Thyroidectomy
Total or partial removal of the thyroid gland.
Radioactive Iodine Therapy
Using radioactive iodine post-surgery to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue.