Thyrotropin dependent Thyroid cancer
Thyrotropin-Dependent Thyroid Cancer
Thyrotropin-dependent (TD) thyroid cancer is a rare form of aggressive, malignant cancer occurring in approximately 5 percent of those with the thyroid cancer diagnosis. It is most commonly found in younger individuals, with 71 percent of cases presenting in people under the age of 40.
TD thyroid cancer occurs when thyroid cells become activated by the stimulatory hormones, thyrotropin (TSH) and thyroxine (T4). This activation stimulates the cells and causes them to grow and divide, leading to tumor formation. TD thyroid cancer is notable for its aggressive behavior and rapid progression. Though it can be treated with surgical excision and radioablation, it has a tendency to return quickly and often requires multiple treatments to be successfully managed.
Risk Factors for TD Thyroid Cancer
The exact cause of TD thyroid cancer is unknown, though many individuals have a genetic predisposition to the condition. Other risk factors that may increase risk of developing TD thyroid cancer include:
- Gender: TD thyroid cancer is far more common in women than in men
- Age: Individuals under the age of 40 are more likely to develop TD thyroid cancer than those over the age of 40
- Family history: A family history of TD thyroid cancer is associated with an increased risk of the condition
- Certain medical conditions: Having certain inherited medical conditions, such as Down syndrome or Turner syndrome, may increase an individual’s risk of developing TD thyroid cancer
- Exposure to radiation: Exposure to radiation, either through medical treatment or environmental factors, may increase the risk of developing TD thyroid cancer
Signs and Symptoms of TD Thyroid Cancer
TD thyroid cancer can present with a variety of symptoms, including:
- A lump or swelling in the neck
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Pain or discomfort in the neck
- Hoarseness
- Persistent cough
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Neck stiffness
- Pain in the ear
Not all of these symptoms will be present with every TD thyroid cancer diagnosis – some individuals may only experience one or two symptoms. If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to make an appointment with a doctor for further evaluation.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for TD Thyroid Cancer
TD thyroid cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests (such as ultrasound or CT scan) and a biopsy of any potentially cancerous cells. If tumor cells are found to be present, a physician may order additional testing, such as a blood test to measure TSH levels, to make an accurate diagnosis.
Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment typically consists of surgical removal of the tumor and its surrounding tissue. In order to reduce recurrence of the cancer, a combination of radioablation (destroy tissue with radiation beams) and thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be prescribed. In cases where the cancer is more advanced or has spread to other parts of the body, additional chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be needed.
Conclusion
Thyrotropin-dependent thyroid cancer is an aggressive and difficult to treat form of thyroid cancer. Its causes are unknown, though certain risk factors, such as being under the age of 40 and having a family history of the condition, may increase the likelihood of its development. If any symptoms suggestive of the condition are present, it is important to see a doctor right away so an accurate diagnosis can be made and effective treatment administered.