Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that originates from cells in the thyroid gland. The disease often manifests itself as a mass in the neck or as a nodule within the thyroid gland. The group that can be the size of peas or walnuts in the thyroid gland and formed as a result of the cells gathering together is called nodule. If the nodule produces hormones, it is called a hot nodule and if it does not, it is called a cold nodule. About 15 percent of cold nodules can turn into cancer. Therefore, when a cold nodule is detected, a thyroid biopsy with a needle is required to detect cancer. Radiation exposure of the head and neck increases the development of thyroid cancer.
What are the treatment methods in thyroid cancer?
The most effective method in the treatment of thyroid cancer is surgery. Although it is thought that only a part of the thyroid gland may be sufficient for the treatment of thyroid cancer, it is argued that the most reliable method is to completely remove the thyroid gland in order to reduce the possibility of recurrence. Problems such as hoarseness and low calcium may occur after thyroid surgery. However, such problems are very rare if the surgery is performed by an experienced surgeon.
Radioactive iodine treatment may be applied to some patients after the operation according to the findings during the operation, the pathological stage of the cancer and all body scans performed postoperatively.
