Thyroid Cancer
Most thyroid nodules are not cancer. Thyroid cancers include several subtypes with very different behaviour and treatment.
Common signs and symptoms
Having one or more of these symptoms does not mean you have cancer. New, unexplained or persistent changes should be assessed.
- a new or growing neck lump
- persistent hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- swollen neck lymph nodes
- neck pressure or pain
Risk factors
A risk factor changes probability; it does not predict who will or will not develop cancer.
- female sex
- exposure to ionising radiation, especially in childhood
- family history or inherited syndromes
- risk differs by subtype and age
Screening and early detection
Routine screening is not recommended for average risk people. Unnecessary ultrasound can find harmless nodules.
How it is investigated and diagnosed
Assessment may include neck examination, thyroid blood tests, ultrasound and fine needle aspiration. Surgery provides final pathology in selected cases.
A biopsy or specialist test is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and exact cancer type. Your healthcare team will explain which tests are appropriate.
Common treatment approaches
Treatment is individual and depends on the cancer subtype, stage, test results, general health and the patient’s priorities.
- partial or total thyroid surgery
- radioactive iodine for selected differentiated cancers
- thyroid hormone treatment
- targeted therapy or radiotherapy for selected advanced disease
Only a qualified treating team can recommend a treatment plan.
Questions to ask your healthcare professional
- What exact cancer type and subtype has been found?
- What stage is it, and which tests established the stage?
- What are my treatment options, expected benefits and possible side effects?
- Should biomarker, genetic or inherited risk testing be considered?
- Who should I contact if my symptoms change or I need urgent help?
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent help for rapidly worsening breathing or swallowing difficulty, coughing blood or quickly increasing neck swelling.
If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department. CFC is not an emergency medical service.
Reliable medical sources
This guide was medically reviewed against current public information from the following authoritative organisations:
This page provides general information only. It cannot diagnose cancer, recommend treatment or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your circumstances.