Thyroid Cancer Treatment

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Thyroid cancer is an uncommon but largely curable cancer when diagnosed early and treated by experienced specialists. Although most thyroid nodules are benign, some can be malignant and require prompt, accurate evaluation to identify the cancer type, stage, and the most suitable treatment approach.

At RGCIRC (Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre), Delhi, thyroid cancer care is delivered through a dedicated Head & Neck Oncology programme that brings together advanced diagnostics, expert surgical oncology, and multidisciplinary treatment planning. Care is tailored according to the specific type and stage of the disease.

What is Thyroid Cancer?

Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the front of the neck that helps regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. It occurs when abnormal cells in the thyroid begin to grow and multiply in an uncontrolled manner, forming a malignant tumour that may, in some cases, spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Many thyroid cancers grow slowly and remain confined to the gland for long periods.

It is important to note that most thyroid nodules are benign and do not represent cancer.

Types of Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is not a single disease. It includes several distinct types that differ in how they grow, spread, and respond to treatment. Identifying the exact type of thyroid cancer is essential, as it directly influences treatment planning and long-term outcomes.

The main types of thyroid cancer include:

Papillary Thyroid Cancer: The most common type, often slow-growing and usually associated with an excellent prognosis when treated appropriately.
Follicular Thyroid Cancer: Slightly less common than papillary cancer and more likely to spread through the bloodstream, but still highly treatable in most cases.
Oncocytic (Hürthle cell) Thyroid Cancer: A less common variant of follicular thyroid cancer that may behave more aggressively and often requires careful surgical and follow-up planning.
Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Arises from specialised thyroid cells and may occur sporadically or as part of inherited genetic syndromes. Early diagnosis and tailored management are important in this type.
Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: A rare and aggressive form that grows rapidly and requires urgent, multidisciplinary management.
Thyroid Lymphoma: An uncommon cancer of the thyroid.

Understanding the specific type of thyroid cancer allows specialists to choose the most appropriate combination of surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, radiation therapy, or systemic treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors for Thyroid Cancer

Common causes and risk factors associated with thyroid cancer include:

Previous Exposure to Radiation: Radiation to the head, neck, or chest, especially during childhood, is one of the strongest established risk factors for thyroid cancer.
Genetic Mutations and Inherited Syndromes: Certain inherited conditions, such as multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes, are associated with an increased risk, particularly for medullary thyroid cancer.
Family History of Thyroid Disease or Cancer: A family history of thyroid cancer or related endocrine conditions may increase susceptibility in some individuals.
Pre-Existing Thyroid Conditions: Long-standing thyroid enlargement (goitre), thyroid nodules, or chronic thyroid inflammation (thyroiditis) have been associated with a higher risk in some cases.
Iodine Imbalance: Both low and excessive iodine intake have been linked to certain types of thyroid cancer, though this association is uncommon in most populations.

It is important to note that many people with thyroid cancer have no known risk factors.

Signs, Symptoms, and When to See a Specialist

Thyroid cancer often develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. In many cases, it is first detected as a thyroid nodule during a routine examination or imaging for another reason. When symptoms do occur, they are usually related to the growth of a lump in the neck or pressure on nearby structures.

Common signs and symptoms of thyroid cancer include:

A Painless Lump or Swelling in the Neck: Usually noticed in the front or on one side of the neck and may gradually increase in size.
Hoarseness or Voice Changes: Persistent voice changes can occur if the tumour affects the nerves supplying the vocal cords.
Persistent Cough not Related to Infection: A dry cough that does not improve with usual treatment should be evaluated.
Neck or Throat Discomfort: Ongoing pain or a sensation of pressure in the neck that does not settle.

A specialist consultation is recommended if a neck lump persists, increases in size, or is accompanied by voice changes, swallowing difficulty, or breathing problems. Early evaluation by a Head & Neck cancer specialist allows for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning, which can significantly improve outcomes in thyroid cancer.

How is Thyroid Cancer Diagnosed?

The diagnostic process typically includes:

Clinical Examination: A thorough assessment of the neck to evaluate the thyroid gland, lymph nodes, and any signs of pressure on nearby structures. Voice assessment is also important to check vocal cord function.
Ultrasound of the Thyroid and Neck: High-resolution ultrasound helps assess thyroid nodules, identify suspicious features, and evaluate lymph node involvement.
Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC): A minimally invasive test used to collect cells from a thyroid nodule or lymph node to confirm whether cancer is present.
Blood Tests: Thyroid function tests, calcium levels, and other relevant markers help assess overall thyroid health and guide treatment planning.
CT Scan or MRI: These imaging tests are used in selected or locally advanced cases to evaluate tumour extent and involvement of surrounding structures.
Genetic Testing (When Indicated): Recommended in suspected medullary thyroid cancer or when there is a family history of inherited endocrine syndromes.

Staging and Treatment Planning

Once thyroid cancer is diagnosed, doctors assess how far the disease has progressed. This process, known as staging, helps determine the most appropriate treatment approach and provides important information about prognosis. Staging is based on factors such as tumour size, involvement of nearby lymph nodes, and whether the cancer has spread beyond the thyroid gland.

Key aspects considered during staging and treatment planning include:

Size and Location of the Tumour: Smaller tumours confined to the thyroid are often treated differently from larger or more invasive cancers.
Lymph Node Involvement: Spread to lymph nodes in the neck influences the extent of surgery and the need for additional therapy.
Type of Thyroid Cancer: Different cancer types behave differently, making accurate classification essential for planning treatment.
Overall Health and Age of the Patient: These factors help guide decisions about treatment intensity and recovery planning.

At RGCIRC, staging and treatment decisions are made through multidisciplinary tumour board discussions. This ensures that each patient receives an individualised treatment plan aligned with international guidelines and focused on achieving the best possible outcomes.

Treatment Options for Thyroid Cancer at RGCIRC

Treatment for thyroid cancer is tailored to the type and stage of disease, as well as the patient’s overall health. At RGCIRC, care is delivered through a multidisciplinary Head & Neck oncology programme, ensuring that treatment is precise, evidence-based, and coordinated across specialties.

The main treatment options include:

Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for most thyroid cancers. Depending on the extent of disease, this may involve removal of part of the thyroid (hemithyroidectomy), the entire gland (total thyroidectomy), and, when required, selective or comprehensive neck dissection to address lymph node involvement.
Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy: Used in selected patients with differentiated thyroid cancers to destroy remaining thyroid tissue or microscopic cancer cells after surgery and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Radiation therapy: External beam radiation may be recommended in advanced, inoperable, or high-risk cases, or when cancer persists or recurs despite surgery and radioactive iodine therapy.
Systemic therapy: Targeted therapy or chemotherapy may be used in selected patients with advanced or aggressive thyroid cancers that do not respond to standard treatments.

Treatment plans are individualised and reviewed regularly, allowing adjustments based on response and tolerance while prioritising safety, recovery, and long-term disease control.

Recovery, Long-Term Care, and Follow-Up

Recovery after thyroid cancer treatment varies depending on the type of surgery performed and whether additional therapies are required. Most patients recover well with appropriate medical guidance and structured follow-up.

Key aspects of recovery and long-term care include:

Post-Surgical Recovery: Patients are monitored for wound healing, voice changes, and calcium levels after surgery. Most people are able to resume normal daily activities gradually, based on their doctor’s advice.
Hormone Replacement Therapy: After total thyroidectomy, lifelong thyroid hormone medication is usually required to maintain normal metabolic function and support overall wellbeing.
Monitoring Calcium and Parathyroid Function: Temporary or, rarely, long-term changes in calcium levels may occur after surgery and are managed with supplements and regular monitoring when needed.
Regular Follow-Up and Surveillance: Follow-up visits may include clinical examinations, blood tests, ultrasound imaging, and other investigations to monitor recovery and detect any recurrence early.
Long-Term Wellbeing and Quality of Life: Ongoing care focuses on maintaining energy levels, voice function, and overall quality of life, with timely intervention if concerns arise.

At RGCIRC, follow-up care is structured and individualised, ensuring patients continue to receive appropriate medical support well beyond the completion of active treatment.

Why Choose RGCIRC for Thyroid Cancer Treatment in Delhi

Key strengths that distinguish thyroid cancer care at RGCIRC include:

Specialised Head & Neck Oncology Expertise: Experienced surgical oncologists manage a wide spectrum of thyroid cancers, from early-stage differentiated cancers to advanced and aggressive disease, with a strong focus on oncological safety and functional outcomes.
Multidisciplinary Tumour Board-Led Care
Advanced Diagnostic and Imaging Capabilities
Comprehensive Treatment Infrastructure Under One Roof
Integrated Supportive Care and Survivorship Follow-Up: Post-treatment monitoring, hormone and calcium management, rehabilitation, and structured follow-up programmes are embedded into the care pathway to support recovery and long-term wellbeing.

Moving Forward with Right Care

A diagnosis of thyroid cancer can be concerning, but with timely evaluation and specialist-led care, most patients achieve excellent outcomes. Advances in diagnostics, surgery, and adjunct therapies have made thyroid cancer one of the most effectively managed cancers today, particularly when treatment is planned and delivered through a multidisciplinary approach.

At RGCIRC, patients benefit from coordinated care that continues beyond treatment, with structured follow-up focused on recovery, long-term health, and quality of life. From early diagnosis to survivorship, the emphasis remains on safe treatment, informed decision-making, and ongoing support.

To consult a cancer specialist for thyroid cancer evaluation, treatment, or a second opinion at RGCIRC, call +91-11-47022222, +91 11 27051037

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is thyroid cancer curable?

Yes. Most types of thyroid cancer, particularly papillary and follicular cancers, are highly treatable and often curable when diagnosed early and managed appropriately.

Q: Are all thyroid nodules cancerous?

No. The majority of thyroid nodules are benign. However, any persistent or enlarging nodule should be evaluated to rule out cancer.

Q: Is thyroid cancer treatment available near me in Delhi?

Yes. Specialised cancer centres in Delhi offer comprehensive thyroid cancer care. RGCIRC provides multidisciplinary management, including advanced diagnostics, surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, and long-term follow-up.