Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma
Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma
Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (pronounced: an-uh-plas-tik thy-roid kar-si-no-muh), also known as ATC, is a rare and aggressive form of thyroid cancer that is often fatal.
Etymology
The term "anaplastic" is derived from the Greek word "anaplasia" which means "to form backward", referring to the dedifferentiation of cells in this type of cancer. "Thyroid" refers to the thyroid gland where the cancer originates, and "carcinoma" is a term for a cancer that starts in the skin or the tissues that line or cover internal organs.
Definition
Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is a type of thyroid cancer that is characterized by rapid growth and spread. It is considered the most aggressive form of thyroid cancer and is often resistant to treatment. This type of cancer is rare, accounting for only about 1-2% of all thyroid cancers.
Symptoms
Symptoms of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma may include a rapidly growing neck mass, hoarseness, neck pain, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. Other symptoms may include cough, shortness of breath, and weight loss.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma typically involves a physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests, and a biopsy of the thyroid gland. The biopsy can confirm the diagnosis and help determine the extent of the cancer.
Treatment
Treatment for anaplastic thyroid carcinoma may include surgery to remove the thyroid gland, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. However, due to the aggressive nature of this cancer, it is often resistant to treatment.
Prognosis
The prognosis for anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is generally poor, with a median survival time of about 3 to 5 months. However, survival rates can vary depending on factors such as the patient's age, overall health, and the extent of the cancer at the time of diagnosis.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma
- Wikipedia's article - Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma
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