Translational medicine

Thyroid neoplasm is a type of neoplasm or tumor that develops in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located in the front of the neck, below the Adam's apple. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolic rate, heart and digestive function, muscle control, brain development, mood, and bone maintenance.

Types of Thyroid Neoplasm

There are several types of thyroid neoplasms, including:

• Papillary thyroid carcinoma: This is the most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. It grows very slowly and usually affects only one lobe of the thyroid gland.

• Follicular thyroid carcinoma: This type accounts for about 10% to 15% of all thyroid cancers. It grows slowly and is more likely to spread to the blood vessels and bones.

• Medullary thyroid carcinoma: This type accounts for about 3% of all thyroid cancers. It is more likely to be inherited and to spread to other parts of the body.

• Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: This is a rare type of thyroid cancer that grows very quickly and is difficult to treat.

Symptoms

Symptoms of thyroid neoplasm may include a lump or swelling in the neck, pain in the front of the neck, hoarseness or other voice changes, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of thyroid neoplasm typically involves a physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests, and a biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment options for thyroid neoplasm may include surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted drug therapy.

See Also

• Thyroid gland
• Neoplasm
• Cancer
• Thyroid cancer