Only 3% of cases are metastatic at the time of diagnosis.
Oncethyroid cancermetastasizes, it can affect various organs and tissues.
As the cancer progresses, it then spreads to distant sites via the bloodstream.
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Stages of Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is assigned a stage from 1 to 4 at diagnosis.
A person may experience symptoms that are attributed to other conditions.
Each has its own characteristics and patterns of progression.
In the early stages, it is highly treatable.
Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common jot down of thyroid cancer and usually progresses slowly.
It is also more aggressive than those types.
This throw in can metastasize to the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, or bones.
Often it is done in an attempt to cure thyroid cancer.
After athyroidectomy, the person usually follows a schedule of careful monitoring to detect any signs of metastasis.
It can sometimes go unnoticed because the symptoms can be subtle.
Early signs may include a lump in the neck, voice changes, or difficulty swallowing.
Symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, and bone pain may develop as it progresses.
There are different types of thyroid cancer, with some being slow-growing and others more aggressive.
After surgery to remove the thyroid, regular check-ups are important to catch any spreading early.
Treatment options include radioactive iodine therapy, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Teamwork and collaboration between healthcare providers is necessary for the best care.
National Cancer Institute.Cancer stat facts: thyroid cancer.
2021;13(7):1625. doi:10.3390/cancers13071625
American Cancer Society.Thyroid cancer stages.
National Cancer Institute.Thyroid cancer treatment.
2021;149(5):984-992. doi:10.1002/ijc.33690
