Explore thyroid cancer: its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Get comprehensive information and support for your health journey.

Thyroid problems are common across the globe, with many people experiencing symptoms of an underactive or overactive thyroid without even realising it. However, it’s important to distinguish these hormone-related symptoms from those that could signal thyroid cancer, as early detection greatly improves outcomes.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), around 586,000 new cases of thyroid cancer were diagnosed worldwide in 2020, making it the 10th most common cancer globally. In this blog, we’ll explore what thyroid cancer is, its symptoms, causes, and how it is diagnosed and treated

What is Thyroid Cancer?

Thyroid cancer develops when abnormal cells in the thyroid gland begin to multiply uncontrollably and form a tumour. Over time, these cancerous cells may invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body. Located at the base of the neck, the thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature, meaning that any abnormalities in its function or structure can have widespread effects on the body.

In recent years, more patients have been seeking treatment for thyroid cancer in Turkey, partly due to improvements in diagnostic technologies. As a result, thyroid cancer diagnosis in Turkey has increased and became more accessible, allowing for earlier detection and better treatment outcomes.

The Thyroid Gland: An Overview

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-like endocrine gland that produces Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). It is present in the neck, on both sides of the midline. The basic functions that the thyroid gland controls include:

Regulation of metabolism
Body temperature control
Heart function
Brain development
Muscle growth
Digestive function regulation
Bone growth
Reproductive health, etc.

Due to its extensive role in the body, thyroid cancer symptoms are wide-ranging and debilitating. Patients present for Thyroid evaluation in Istanbul with vague symptoms that may or may not lead to a thyroid cancer diagnosis. This underscores a need for regular health check-ups.

How Thyroid Cancer Develops

There are normal cells in the thyroid gland that are responsible for its growth. A genetic mutation in these cells changes their DNA and turns them into cancer-producing cells. This mutation can be inherited in some cases. However for the most part, it occurs due to changes during a person’s lifetime (acquired). The mutated cells bypass the normal checks and balances of the immune system, accumulate within the gland, and form tumors.

Types of Thyroid Cancer

There are several types of thyroid cancer. Some are easy to treat, while others have an aggressive course. Thyroid cancer is more commonly diagnosed in females than in males.

Papillary Thyroid Cancer

Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common type of thyroid cancer. It is slow-growing and often spreads to the lymph nodes in the neck. Despite this, it generally has a good prognosis.

Follicular Thyroid Cancer

The second most common type is follicular thyroid cancer. It may spread to lungs/bones. However, early diagnosis leads to a good prognosis

Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer

Anaplastic thyroid cancer is rare and has an aggressive course. It is fast-growing, often diagnosed at a late stage, and presents challenges in thyroid cancer treatment. It typically has a poor prognosis.

Medullary Thyroid Cancer

Medullary thyroid cancer arises from the parafollicular or C-cells in the thyroid gland. It has a genetic link, often associated with MEN2-related genetic syndromes thyroid cancer. It is the third most common type of thyroid cancer. If it is diagnosed early, it generally has a good prognosis.

As a premier medical tourism destination, patients can access specialist endocrine surgeons in Turkey with relative ease. For thyroid cancer treatment in Istanbul, patients can book an expert evaluation at the Medical Park Hospitals with affordability and trust.

Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer

Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a neck lump (thyroid nodule), neck swelling, difficulty swallowing or breathing, hoarseness, swollen lymph nodes, etc. The exact signs in patients in Turkey depend on the extent of thyroid cancer spread.

Early Signs and When to See a Doctor

Early signs of thyroid cancer may include a painless or painful lump at the front of the neck, persistent hoarseness or voice changes, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. While these symptoms can also be caused by benign thyroid conditions, it’s important not to ignore them. Prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional can lead to early diagnosis when treatment is most effective.

In major cities like Istanbul, thyroid screening in Turkey is widely available, making it easier for individuals to undergo routine check-ups and ultrasound examinations when symptoms arise.

Causes and Risk Factors of Thyroid Cancer

The exact thyroid cancer causes are not known. However, common thyroid cancer risk factors to watch out for include:

Genetic Predisposition

Some types of thyroid cancer have a genetic component (MEN2 variations), while in others the genetic mutation is acquired in life.

Environmental Factors

Among thyroid cancer risk factors, environmental factors also play a role. For example, radiation exposure, iodine imbalance, chronic exposure to heavy metals, pollutants, and chemicals can lead to thyroid cancer.

Demographic Risk Factors

Certain demographics are at higher risk for thyroid cancer. These include:

Gender (Females > Males)
Age (Between 30 to 60 years)
Positive family history
Positive personal history of thyroid disease
Radiation exposure thyroid damage
Geography (low iodine areas)

Diagnosing Thyroid Cancer

To ensure thyroid cancer diagnosis in Turkey and in many parts of the world, a combination of the following diagnostic tools is typically used:

Initial Examination and Imaging

Initial examination and imaging for thyroid conditions involve taking a detailed medical history and performing a thorough physical examination. Imaging techniques such as a CT scan thyroid, MRI thyroid gland, and ultrasound thyroid are commonly used to assess the size, structure, and any abnormalities in the gland.

Biopsy and Genetic Testing

To further confirm the results of the above investigations, thyroid cancer patients in Turkey undergo thyroid biopsy and genetic testing.

Staging and Further Tests

Tumor staging and further evaluations are done to assess the thyroid cancer prognosis and progression. It is essential for constructing an effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Thyroid Cancer

The following treatment options in Turkey are available for managing thyroid cancer:

Observation and Active Surveillance

A high degree of suspicion is required in patients with a known family history or genetic predisposition to thyroid cancer. Early detection in thyroid cancer saves lives.

Surgical Interventions

Surgical interventions for thyroid cancer may include a thyroidectomy, which can be total, near-total, or a lobectomy, depending on the extent of the disease. In cases where the cancer has spread, lymph node dissection may also be performed.

For a detailed overview of our specialised cancer surgery services, see our Surgical Oncology department page.

Hormone and Targeted Therapies

Newer and more promising treatments for thyroid cancer in Turkey include:

Thyroid hormone therapy
Radioactive iodine therapy
Targeted drug therapy

Radiation and Chemotherapy

For advanced or aggressive disease, external radiation therapy or chemotherapy are used as adjunctive treatments.

Managing and Living with Thyroid Cancer

Living with thyroid cancer can bring many physical and emotional challenges, regardless of whether the tumour is slow-growing or aggressive. Ongoing care often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving endocrinologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and nutrition specialists. This team-based support helps patients navigate surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, thyroid hormone replacement, and long-term follow-up to monitor for recurrence.

Understanding Recurrence and Metastasis

Thyroid cancer recurrence and metastases are common, and patients are counseled to view any new symptoms with a high degree of suspicion and seek professional help.

Post-Treatment Monitoring

Monitoring and regular follow-ups are an important part of thyroid cancer remission, as recurrences and metastasis are common.

Coping with a Diagnosis

Coping with a cancer diagnosis is the first step to successful treatment. Patients should consider joining support groups and seeking professional psychological help.

Preventing Thyroid Cancer

Cancer prevention is always the best option. Regular thyroid health check-ups and keeping an eye on any untoward health issues go a long way in preventing thyroid cancer.

Genetic Counseling and Prophylactic Measures

For a known genetic predisposition or a family history of thyroid cancer, genetic counseling is the best course of action.

Radiation Protection

Radiation exposure, especially during childhood, is a well-established risk factor for thyroid cancer and should be avoided at all costs.

For further information on advanced cancer therapies in Turkey, visit our oncology treatment in Turkey page. With over 25 years of experience, Medical Park Healthcare Group delivers advanced thyroid cancer care across Turkey. Its network of 27 hospitals offers access to modern treatment technologies and personalised care plans, helping patients manage their condition while maintaining the best possible quality of life.

This content was developed by the MedicalPark Editorial Board and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.