The thyroid is an essential part of the body as it regulates many metabolic processes. This butterfly-shaped gland regulates different body functions through the release of a continuous amount of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. It also regulates the heart, digestive function, brain development, muscle control, mood, and bone development. Its functioning depends on the proper supply of iodine from the diet.

Due to the imbalance in iodine levels, there can be many medical problems related to thyroid. In fact, even cancerous growth can take place in this gland. It occurs in the cells of the thyroid. There are five different types of thyroid cancer. Thyroid cancer occurs when cells in the thyroid gland undergo genetic changes or mutate. The cells lose the ability to die like other normal cells. Thus, the accumulation of abnormal thyroid cells form a tumor that can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.

Thyroid cancer usually does not have any symptoms or signs in the early stages. However, as it grows it may cause a lump on the neck that can be felt, changes in voice, difficulty in swallowing, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and pain in the neck and throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor. The treatment and prognosis will depend on the type of cancer, as follows:

1. Papillary thyroid cancer

It is one of the most common types of thyroid cancer. It starts in the cells that produce and store thyroid hormones. It can affect people between the ages of 30-50. This cancer can often spread to the lymph nodes.

2. Follicular thyroid cancer

This cancer starts in the follicular cells and spreads slowly. It is also one of the common types of thyroid cancer but not as common as papillary thyroid cancer. It rarely spreads to the lymph nodes. It is found commonly in places or countries with insufficient dietary intake of iodine. It is an aggressive form of cancer.

3. Hurthle cell cancer

It is also called Hurthle cell carcinoma. It starts in a particular type of follicular cell and is a subtype of follicular thyroid cancer. It is more likely to spread to the lymph nodes than any other follicular thyroid cancer.

4. Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC)

It originates in the C cells of the thyroid gland. It is an aggressive cancer and is likely to spread to lymph nodes and other organs when compared to the different types of thyroid cancer. It can be controlled and treated if detected in time and does not spread to other organs. About 25% of all MTC cases are genetic.

5. Anaplastic thyroid cancer

This is one of the rare types of thyroid cancer and accounts for only 1% of all thyroid cancer cases. It is a rapidly growing variety of thyroid cancer that is tough to treat. It quickly spreads to other parts of the neck and body. It usually occurs in people over the age of 60 years.