Alternative Names
Tumor – thyroid; Cancer – thyroid
Definition of Thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer is a cancerous growth of the thyroid gland.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Thyroid cancer can occur in all age groups.
Signs and tests
A physical examination can reveal a thyroid mass or nodule (usually in the lower part of the front of the neck), or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
Treatment
Treatment varies significantly, depending on the type of tumor.
Expectations (prognosis)
Anaplastic carcinoma has the worst outcome of all the types of thyroid cancer. It is usually fatal despite aggressive treatment.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 3/2/2010
