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Thyroid Cancer Treatment

Treating thyroid cancer involves a combination of surgery to remove tumors, radioactive iodine therapy, and advanced targeted treatments. Early detection plays a crucial role in ensuring better outcomes, while ongoing monitoring helps manage the disease effectively and enhances patient survival rates.

  • 07 Jan 2025
  • 4 min read
  • 30 views

Thyroid cancer begins in the butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck, which controls vital body functions like metabolism, heart rate and body temperature. It is highly treatable, especially when diagnosed early.

The treatment for thyroid cancer is tailored to the specific type and stage of the disease, considering individual factors such as age and overall health. The treatment options may vary for Stages I, II and III of papillary and follicular thyroid cancer, which are considered localised or regional. Treatment modalities encompass surgery, chemotherapy, radioiodine therapy, thyroid hormone treatment and external radiation therapy.

Treatment of thyroid cancer

1. Surgery

Surgery is the primary method for thyroid cancer treatment, with a thyroidectomy referring to the complete removal of the thyroid gland. A lobectomy refers to the partial removal of the thyroid gland, specifically one of the lobes.

As part of the surgery, lymph nodes in the neck area and tissue around the thyroid gland may be removed. This choice is contingent upon the specific size and position of the tumour.

2. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy, or chemo, involves the use of chemicals in the treatment of cancer. These drugs are designed to attack and eliminate fast-growing cells, such as cancer cells. Administration can be through pills, shots or intravenous (IV), allowing the drugs to circulate throughout the body to reach cancer cells wherever they may be located.

3. Radioactive iodine ablation

One of the effective thyroid cancer treatments is Radioactive Iodine Ablation (RIA). Both the normal thyroid tissue and the thyroid cancer cells have a propensity to absorb iodine. RIA is implemented after a thyroidectomy to eliminate any remaining thyroid tissue. The iodine is directed toward the thyroid tissue, where the subsequent radiation is utilised for its destruction. This treatment is also employed for cases where cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body or if it has recurred. The radiation level in this therapeutic procedure is significantly higher than that utilised in a standard radioiodine scan.

Patients may need to adopt a specific low-iodine diet for one to two weeks before the treatment and may temporarily stop intake of thyroid hormone pills if using them.

4. Thyroid hormone therapy

After the complete removal of the thyroid gland, doctors prescribe thyroid hormone pills. These pills substitute the missing hormones and help prevent any potential resurgence of remaining cancer cells by lowering the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is produced by the pituitary gland. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones and also fosters the growth of cancer cells. Thus, maintaining lower levels of TSH helps in preventing the stimulation of any residual cancerous cells.

5. External radiation therapy

The application of this thyroid cancer treatment is mainly reserved for thyroid cancers that are either uncommon or have reached a more advanced stage.

External beam radiation, or X-ray therapy, is used to destroy cancer cells, with a meticulous approach to protect the surrounding healthy tissues as much as possible. The treatment is conducted with precision to minimise the impact on the rest of the body. Typically, this radiation therapy is carried out over several weeks.

Representing a newer treatment strategy, targeted therapy singles out specific elements of cancer cells to slow down or halt their growth. Administered in pill form, this approach generally results in fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.

Both external beam radiation therapy and targeted therapy are important treatment options in cancer care, offering precision and reduced side effects compared to more generalised treatments like traditional chemotherapy. These therapies are utilised based on the specific type of cancer, its characteristics and individual patient considerations.

Conclusion

In the case of a thyroid cancer diagnosis, medical professionals assist in determining the most suitable treatment. They discuss the benefits, outline potential risks and guide patients through the decision-making process. Maintaining open communication with the medical team and, if necessary, seeking guidance from the health insurance provider ensures a comprehensive understanding of treatment options, coverage and associated costs.

 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

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