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thyroid malignancy

Papillary Thyroid Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Teaser: 

D'Arcy Little MD CCFP FCFP FRCPC,

Medical Director, Journal of Current Clinical Care and www.healthplexus.net, Adjunct Clinical Lecturer, Departments of Medical Imaging and Family Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

CLINICAL TOOLS

Abstract: Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) represents approximately 80% of all thyroid malignancies. This cancer primarily affects women and typically develops in adults between the ages of 30 and 50. Previous exposure to radiation during childhood stands out as a major risk factor. In most cases, PTC is discovered by chance as a thyroid nodule that causes no symptoms, though it can also manifest as a noticeable mass in the neck or enlarged lymph nodes. Less frequently, patients may experience dysphagia, dysphonia, and dyspnea when the tumour compresses nearby structures. This article examines the essential aspects of diagnosing, imaging, and treating this condition.
Key Words: papillary thyroid cancer, thyroid malignancy, diagnosis, imaging, treatment.
Papillary thyroid cancer is the most prevalent thyroid malignancy, comprising 80% of all thyroid cancer cases and predominantly affecting women between 30-50 years old.
A history of childhood radiation exposure is identified as a significant risk factor for developing this cancer.
Most cases are discovered as asymptomatic thyroid nodules found incidentally, though some patients present with visible neck masses or enlarged lymph nodes.
While less common, patients may experience compression symptoms including difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or breathing problems.
Always obtain a detailed radiation exposure history in patients presenting with thyroid nodules, as this significantly impacts risk assessment.
Don’t dismiss asymptomatic thyroid nodules—they could be the first sign of PTC and warrant proper evaluation.
When examining a patient with a thyroid nodule, be sure to thoroughly assess cervical lymph nodes, as PTC commonly spreads to regional lymph nodes even in early stages.
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Related Terms: Radiology, papillary thyroid cancer, thyroid malignancy, diagnosis, imaging, treatment
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