Thyroid Cancer Type: Papillary (PTC) - Symptoms and Further Details

Thyroid Cancer Type: Papillary (PTC) - Symptoms and Further Details

Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for approximately 85% of cases. This slow-growing cancer typically stays within the thyroid gland, but can spread beyond it in more advanced stages.

PTC often presents as a painless lump in the front lower region of the neck that does not move through touch. If left untreated, PTC may progress, leading to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, changes to the voice, pain in the neck, throat, or jaw, choking sensations, fatigue, and vocal hoarseness.

In the early stages, PTC may not show any symptoms and blood tests may be normal. However, anyone who notices a new and persistent lump, or swelling, at the base of their neck below the Adam's apple should seek advice from a medical professional.

Radioiodine therapy is a procedure recommended when PTC has spread beyond the thyroid (extrathyroidal extension). In some cases, a thyroid lobectomy may be necessary, where a surgeon removes a part or all of the thyroid gland. Chemotherapy may be necessary when other treatments are ineffective.

It's important to note that PTC is more common in females and older people. Most PTCs are small and respond effectively to treatment, even if the cancer cells spread to lymph nodes or soft tissues within the neck.

Besides PTC, there are other main types of thyroid cancer. Follicular Thyroid Cancer (FTC), like papillary, is classified as a differentiated thyroid cancer. FTC accounts for a smaller portion of thyroid cancers but has a higher tendency to metastasize to distant organs.

Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) originates from parafollicular C cells of the thyroid and constitutes about 5-10% of thyroid cancers. MTC can be sporadic or hereditary (about 25% hereditary cases), linked to RET gene mutations. It is less responsive to radiotherapy and requires primarily surgical treatment.

Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC) is a rare and highly aggressive type of thyroid cancer, accounting for 1-2% of cases. It tends to occur in older adults and requires urgent intervention. This type is classified as an undifferentiated thyroid carcinoma and is very different from the differentiated types histologically and clinically.

In summary, thyroid cancers are broadly classified into four main types: Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC), Follicular Thyroid Cancer (FTC), Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC), and Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC). The differentiated thyroid cancers (PTC and FTC) have better prognoses compared to medullary and anaplastic forms.

For people aged 55 or under, metastatic PTC is classified as stage 2 because the survival rate is high. For those aged over 55, the staging process is different. Most people with PTC continue to have a positive quality of life, and those who have their thyroid gland removed will need hormonal replacement medications.

It's crucial to remember that early detection and treatment are key in managing thyroid cancer. If you notice any unusual symptoms or lumps in your neck, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

[1] Thyroid Cancer: Types, Diagnosis, and Treatment. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/thyroid-cancer/diagnosis-and-staging

[2] Thyroid Cancer: Types, Stages, and Grades. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/thyroid-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/staging.html

[5] Thyroid Cancer: Overview. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thyroid-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20374966

1. Science has greatly contributed to the understanding of various types of thyroid cancer, such as Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC), which accounts for about 85% of cases.
2. PTC is typically a slow-growing cancer, staying within the thyroid gland, but it can spread to other parts of the body in more advanced stages.
3. PTC often presents as a painless lump in the front lower region of the neck, and it's crucial to seek medical advice if such a lump persists.
4. Therapies and treatments for PTC may include radioiodine therapy, thyroid lobectomy, chemotherapy, and hormonal replacement medications if the thyroid gland is removed.
5. Mental health and wellness are also important factors for people diagnosed with thyroid cancer, as maintaining a positive quality of life is crucial in managing the condition.
6. Regular check-ups, proper nutrition, cardiovascular health, skin care, and fitness and exercise are all aspects of health and wellness that can support overall well-being and potentially prevent or manage chronic diseases like thyroid cancer.

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