Facts About Thyroid Cancer - ENT Specialty Group

1. FACTS ABOUT THYROID CANCER

2. Here are some interesting facts about thyroid cancer: 1. Thyroid cancer specifically affects the cells in the thyroid gland, which are an important part of the body's endocrine system. The small butterfly-shaped gland known as the thyroid gland is located just below the larynx. 2. Malignant thyroid tumors develop in the cells of the thyroid gland. There are two different types of cells in the thyroid gland - follicular cells and parafollicular cells (or C cells). When a tumor becomes malignant, it means that the cancer can spread from the thyroid cells to other cells and areas of the body (this is called metastasis). 3. Parafollicular cells (or C cells) produce calcitonin. Calcitonin is often elevated in patients with medullary thyroid cancer. 4. Most of the thyroid is made up of follicular cells. According to research by the John Hopkins Society, the follicular thyroid cells produce hormones that are needed for every aspect of metabolism and vital health - such as weight, blood pressure, body temperature, and pulse. The follicular cells secrete two types of iodine-containing thyroid hormones - T4 (or thyroxine) and T3 (or triiodothyronine). The follicular cells need iodine to produce thyroid hormones. 5. According to the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS), papillary thyroid cancer is responsible for nearly >70 percent of all thyroid cancer cases. It occurs with changes in the thyroid cells, which can lead to the formation of malignant tumors. 6. Changes in thyroid cells at times lead to benign, non-cancerous thyroid disorders. According to the Mayo Clinic, changes in thyroid cells, even if they are not carcinogenic, can lead to life- changing conditions - such as hyperthyroidism and hyperthyroidism.