Thyroid Cancer Treatment at Jefferson
Thyroid cancer is a cancerous growth of the thyroid gland (located at the base of your neck) and can occur in all ages. Although the majority of thyroid masses or nodules (abnormal growths) are benign, about 10 percent of nodules do contain cancer. Otolaryngologists (ear, nose and throat physicians) at Jefferson will carefully evaluate the mass or nodule and may perform the following:
- A blood test to assess the function of your thyroid
- Ultrasound to detect any other nodules and their sizes
- A radionuclide scan
- A fine-needle aspiration biopsy to determine what types of cells are present in the thyroid gland and nodules
If the nodule or mass is found to be cancerous, your Jefferson otolaryngologist may recommend radiation therapy in combination with surgery to remove the entire thyroid gland. If the cancer does not respond to surgery or radiation therapy and has spread to other parts of your body, chemotherapy is another option.
Rated among the best in the nation for Ear, Nose and Throat by U.S.News & World Report, our otolaryngologists offer comprehensive evaluation, treatment and rehabilitation.