Blog

The Different Types of Thyroid Cancer and How They’re Treated

Thyroid cancer may not be as common as other cancers, but it’s one of the most treatable—especially when caught early.

Thyroid cancer may not be as common as other cancers, but it’s one of the most treatable—especially when caught early. Understanding the different types of thyroid cancer, how they’re diagnosed, and treatment options can make a big difference in how patients face this condition with confidence.

In this article, we’ll explore the various types of thyroid cancer, their unique features, and how they are typically managed.

What Is Thyroid Cancer?

Thyroid cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck. While most thyroid cancers grow slowly, some types can be more aggressive.

Thyroid cancer is often discovered as a lump (nodule) in the neck or found incidentally during imaging tests for unrelated issues.

Types of Thyroid Cancer

There are several types of thyroid cancer, each with different behaviors and treatment approaches:

1. Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma (PTC)

Most common type (around 80% of cases)

  • Grows slowly and often spreads to lymph nodes in the neck.

  • Usually found in one lobe of the thyroid.

  • More common in women and younger adults.

  • Has an excellent prognosis with proper treatment.

Treatment:

  • Surgery (thyroidectomy or lobectomy)

  • Radioactive iodine therapy (for moderate to high-risk cases)

  • Long-term thyroid hormone therapy

  • Routine follow-up with imaging and blood tests

2. Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma

Second most common type

  • Slightly more aggressive than papillary carcinoma.

  • May spread to lungs or bones.

  • Common in areas with low iodine intake.

Treatment:

  • Total thyroidectomy

  • Radioactive iodine therapy

  • Thyroid hormone replacement

  • Monitoring with thyroglobulin blood tests

3. Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)

Originates from C cells (which produce calcitonin)

  • Can be sporadic or inherited as part of a genetic syndrome (MEN2).

  • Tends to spread to lymph nodes and distant organs early.

  • Blood tests for calcitonin and CEA help with diagnosis and monitoring.

Treatment:

  • Total thyroidectomy with lymph node dissection

  • Genetic testing (for RET gene mutations)

  • Targeted therapies (for advanced cases)

  • No radioactive iodine used (MTC cells don’t absorb iodine)

4. Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma

Rarest and most aggressive form

  • Usually affects older adults.

  • Grows rapidly and often invades nearby structures.

  • Difficult to treat and often diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Treatment:

  • Surgery (if possible)

  • Radiation and chemotherapy

  • Targeted therapies and immunotherapy (emerging options)

  • Palliative care when needed

How Is Thyroid Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with:

  • Neck exam and ultrasound

  • Thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4)

  • Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy to check if nodules are cancerous

  • CT scans, MRI, or PET scans (if spread is suspected)

  • Genetic testing for medullary thyroid cancer

General Treatment Strategies

While treatment varies by cancer type, it may include a combination of the following:

  1. Surgery
     Removal of part or all of the thyroid (lobectomy or thyroidectomy)

  2. Radioactive Iodine Therapy
     Destroys remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells (used in PTC and follicular cancer)

  3. Thyroid Hormone Therapy
     Prevents recurrence by lowering TSH levels and replacing lost hormones

  4. External Beam Radiation or Chemotherapy
     Used in aggressive or non-responsive types

  5. Targeted Drug Therapies
     Especially useful for advanced or metastatic cancers like MTC or anaplastic types

Prognosis and Follow-Up

  • Papillary and follicular cancers usually have a very high survival rate—over 90% at 10 years.

  • Medullary cancer has a variable outlook depending on early detection and genetics.

  • Anaplastic thyroid cancer has a poorer prognosis but ongoing research is improving options.

Follow-up includes:

  • Regular blood tests (e.g., thyroglobulin, calcitonin, TSH)

  • Ultrasound imaging

  • Whole-body scans (if radioactive iodine was used)

Final Thoughts

Thyroid cancer can sound intimidating, but with modern diagnostic tools and highly effective treatments, most people go on to lead healthy, normal lives. Recognizing symptoms, getting screened, and receiving timely treatment are the keys to the best outcomes.

Concerned about a thyroid nodule or family history of thyroid cancer?

 Schedule a screening or explore your eligibility for a clinical research study.
 Early action saves lives—know your risk, take control.