What are the Symptoms of Medullary Thyroid Cancer?
October 9, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare type of thyroid cancer that begins in the thyroid gland’s C cells, which produce calcitonin, a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the blood. Symptoms of medullary thyroid cancer may include:
- Lump or nodule in the neck: A palpable lump or mass in the thyroid area, often located in the front of the neck.
- Thyroid enlargement (goiter): Swelling or enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can be visible or felt in the neck.
- Hoarseness or voice changes: Changes in the voice, such as hoarseness, caused by pressure on the nerves near the thyroid.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): Trouble swallowing or a feeling of a lump in the throat due to the tumor pressing on the esophagus.
- Shortness of breath or wheezing: Difficulty breathing or wheezing due to compression of the trachea or windpipe by the tumor.
- Persistent cough or coughing up blood (hemoptysis): Chronic cough or coughing up blood may occur if the cancer has spread to the lungs.
- Pain in the neck or throat: Discomfort, pain, or tenderness in the neck or throat area.
- Flushing or redness of the skin: Facial flushing or redness, particularly in the cheeks and neck, due to the release of certain hormones.
- Diarrhea and abdominal pain: Persistent diarrhea or abdominal discomfort, as MTC can cause the overproduction of certain hormones that affect the gastrointestinal system.
- Fatigue and weakness: Generalized tiredness, lack of energy, or weakness.
- Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss despite a regular or increased appetite.
It’s important to note that early-stage medullary thyroid cancer may not always cause noticeable symptoms, making regular check-ups and screenings crucial for early detection. If you experience any concerning symptoms or have risk factors for thyroid cancer, such as a family history of MTC or certain genetic conditions, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate testing.