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There are several diseases that can affect this gland.
It is important to note that the presence of a thyroid nodule, a gland located at the bottom of the neck, is not usually an indication of cancer. However, the appearance of these nodules in patients with a history of radiotherapy is considered suspicious. In addition, rapidly growing thyroid nodules are also more suspicious of being malignant.
For example, a thyroid nodule, associated with enlarged lymph nodes in the neck and/or hoarseness, can be a strong indication of a malignancy. In some more advanced cases, in addition to hoarseness, compressive symptoms and even a feeling of breathlessness, in addition to difficulty swallowing food, may be signs of symptoms suggestive of malignancy in the face of a localized mass.
To prevent this type of cancer, which is more prevalent in women, it is necessary to understand the risk factors, maintain proper body weight, perform constant checkups for an early, fast and accurate diagnosis, implement appropriate therapies and be judicious with treatment follow-up.
Diagnostic tests play a key role. The comprehensive technology solutions developed by the players in the health system seek to provide complete continuity of the corresponding treatment, including risk assessment and prevention, early diagnosis, therapy, and subsequent care.
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“Thyroid cancer accounts for about 1% of all malignancies in the body. However, its incidence is believed to be higher, as the disease may have no symptoms in its early stages or be confused with other thyroid conditions. . It is important to remember that thyroid cancer, in most cases, has a good prognosis and can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, and/or hormone therapy, depending on the stage of the disease.” says Hélida Silva, director of Medical Affairs Laboratory Diagnostics at Siemens Healthineers, Latin America.
The expert adds that it is essential to have regular exams and be aware of symptoms, such as thyroid nodules, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, neck pain, among others. If there are suspicions, the ideal is to seek a thyroid specialist for evaluation and diagnosis of it.
After surgery, radioactive iodine (I-131) therapy may play an important role. This therapy is directed at destroying any residual thyroid tissue or cancer cells that may have spread to other areas of the body. Particularly effective in well-differentiated thyroid cancers, such as papillary and follicular types, radioactive iodine therapy is a key component in preventing recurrence and effective treatment.
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Hormone therapy is also an integral part of postoperative treatment. Synthetic prescription thyroid hormone (levothyroxine) helps replace natural thyroid function while suppressing the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This strategy is vital to prevent cancer recurrence and reduce the risk of remaining cancer cells developing.
In more specific cases, external radiation therapy may be a consideration. Primarily used in advanced-stage or anaplastic thyroid cancers, this form of treatment directs radiation to specific areas where cancer cells may have spread.
For advanced or resistant thyroid cancers, targeted therapies are being used. These are drugs designed to target specific molecular alterations present in cancer cells. This treatment modality represents a promising approach in challenging cases.
On completion of treatment, constant monitoring and surveillance are essential. Regular medical visits allow monitoring of thyroid hormone levels, evaluation of thyroid function and carrying out imaging tests to detect possible recurrences.
Ultimately, the choice of treatment is based on a personalized approach, guided by the type and stage of the cancer, along with the comprehensive evaluation of the thyroid cancer medical team.
In case you have more questions or have suggestions on topics you would like to read about, please write to [email protected].
Mr. Vanessa Ortiz
