Medullary carcinoma of thyroid

Alternative names:

thyroid - medullary carcinoma

Treatment:

Surgical removal of the thyroid gland is the initial treatment. Surgical risks involve inadvertent removal of parathyroid glands or resection of nerve tissue of the larynx, which leads to serious complications.

Support groups:

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

The expectation for this type of thyroid cancer varies. Women under 40 usually have a better outcome. The 10-year survival rate (amount of people who live for at least 10 years after diagnosis) is 46%.

Complications:

• medullary carcinoma invading nearby lymph nodes
• inadvertent removal of parathyroid glands during surgery
• metastasis of cancer to blood vessels or other sites

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if of this disorder develop.