Free cancer support
thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer is a malignant tumor originating from thyroid tissue. It occurs more frequently in women than men, and its incidence has gradually increased over the past decade. Although most thyroid cancers progress slowly, some types, such as anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, are highly aggressive.
Major Risk Factors Include:
Genetic Factors: Familial thyroid cancer and gene mutations such as BRCA and RET increase risk.
Radiation Exposure: Exposure to radiation in the head and neck area during childhood or adolescence is associated with higher risk.
Thyroid Conditions: Long-standing thyroid nodules or chronic thyroiditis may elevate risk.
Abnormal Iodine Intake: Both excessive and insufficient iodine intake can affect thyroid health.
Thyroid cancer is most common in middle-aged and older women. Early stages usually present with no obvious symptoms. Early screening and continuous supportive care are crucial for improving quality of life and long-term health management.
Early-stage thyroid cancer often shows no obvious symptoms. As the disease progresses, the following may appear:
Neck Mass: Usually painless, located in the thyroid lobe, and may gradually enlarge.
Hoarseness or Difficulty Swallowing: Occurs when the tumor compresses the trachea or esophagus.
Enlarged Neck Lymph Nodes: May indicate local metastasis.
Breathing Difficulty or Neck Pain: Late-stage symptom, sometimes accompanied by coughing or a sensation of a foreign body.
Distant Metastasis Symptoms: Such as bone pain, lung discomfort, or other systemic manifestations; less common but require attention.
Additionally, some patients may experience chronic fatigue, a sensation of something stuck when swallowing, or mild thyroid dysfunction, suggesting the need for further evaluation.
Diagnosis of thyroid cancer involves multiple methods to improve early detection and enable precise classification:
Imaging Examinations
Neck Ultrasound: Evaluates nodule size, shape, blood flow signals, and lymph node status.
CT or MRI: Used when invasion of surrounding tissues or large tumors is suspected.
Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy
Confirms tumor cell type and malignancy grade; considered the gold standard for diagnosis.
Thyroid Function Tests
Measures TSH, T3, T4, and antibodies to assess overall thyroid function.
Tumor Markers
Thyroglobulin (Tg) and anti-Tg antibodies can be used for postoperative monitoring or recurrence assessment.
Molecular Testing
Gene tests for RET, BRAF, and others assist in classification and formulation of personalized care plans.
Care and support strategies for thyroid cancer can be divided into conventional approaches and personalized support strategies. The goal is to maintain quality of life, support body function, and enhance immunity and overall health.
Surgery
Suitable for early-stage tumors, allowing removal of the tumor and necessary lymph nodes.
Postoperative care combined with nutritional support, physical care, and psychological counseling can promote recovery.
Radioactive Iodine and Radiation Support
Used to remove residual thyroid tissue or reduce the risk of recurrence.
Combined with nutrition, fluid management, and nursing guidance to minimize side effects and maintain body function.
Personalized Support Strategies
Care plans formulated based on molecular testing results; for example, BRAF or RET-positive patients may receive specific monitoring and lifestyle management measures.
Supportive immune enhancement and nutritional therapies help improve body resistance.
Nutritional and Supportive Therapies
High-dose vitamin C, glutathione, amino acids, and trace element infusions.
Improve energy levels, maintain immune function, and support overall health.
Personalized Monitoring and Care
Regular imaging, blood tests, and molecular marker assessments.
Develop individualized care plans, adjusting nutrition, lifestyle, and psychological support.
Specialized care plans are available for patients with long-term heavy metal exposure, chronic inflammation, or impaired immune function.
