Here's a straightforward breakdown of follicular thyroid cancer, a type of cancer that begins in the follicle cells of the thyroid gland.
Causes
A number of factors may increase the risk of developing follicular thyroid cancer, including:
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Follicular thyroid cancer may be caused by genetic mutations or alterations.
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Childhood exposure to ionizing radiation may increase the risk of thyroid cancer later in life.
Symptoms
Symptoms of follicular thyroid cancer may not be apparent in the early stages. However, as the cancer progresses, symptoms may include:
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A thyroid nodule is a painless lump in the neck that is often found during a routine physical examination or self-check.
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A change in voice quality or persistent hoarseness.
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Dysphagia is the inability to swallow solid foods, particularly solids.
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Swelling of the neck, often accompanied by pain or discomfort.
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Voice Changes: Changes in voice pitch or quality due to involvement of the vocal cords.
Diagnosis
Follicular thyroid cancer is typically diagnosed by:
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A thyroid ultrasound can be performed to visualize the thyroid gland and identify any nodules or abnormalities.
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An FNA biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue from the thyroid nodule and examining it under a microscope for cancer cells.
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Blood tests to determine thyroid hormone levels and thyroid function.
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Additional imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans, can be performed to assess the extent of cancer spread.
Treatment
Follicular thyroid cancer is typically treated with:
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Cancerous tissue may be removed surgically by removing the thyroid gland (total thyroidectomy) or the affected lobe (lobectomy).
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Using radioactive iodine after surgery can destroy any remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells.
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In order to replace the natural hormones produced by the thyroid gland after thyroid surgery, thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be prescribed.
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For advanced or aggressive cases of follicular thyroid cancer, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended.
Prevention
There may not always be a way to prevent follicular thyroid cancer, but certain measures may help reduce the risk or detect it early:
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Perform regular self-examinations of the neck to detect any lumps or abnormalities.
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Radiation Exposure: Avoid ionizing radiation, particularly during childhood.
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A routine medical examination, including thyroid function tests and imaging studies, may help detect thyroid nodules or abnormalities early.
It is a type of cancer that occurs in the thyroid gland's follicular cells. The exact cause of this type of cancer is not always clear, but certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing it. Managing follicular thyroid cancer effectively requires early detection and appropriate treatment. This type of cancer can be reduced by regular self-examinations, medical checkups, and reducing radiation exposure.
