Overview
Thyroid cancer forms in the thyroid gland at the front of the neck, usually appearing as a painless lump. Most thyroid cancers are slow-growing and among the most treatable of all cancers, with excellent outcomes when found early. Because a neck lump or a lasting change in the voice can also come from harmless causes, the key is simply to have any new, firm or growing thyroid lump examined rather than watched for years.
Symptoms
- A painless lump or swelling at the front of the neck
- A lump that grows or feels firm and fixed
- A hoarse voice that does not recover
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing if large
- Swollen glands in the neck
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for a new or growing neck lump, or a hoarse voice or swallowing difficulty that lasts more than a few weeks.
Causes
Often unknown; risk is raised by radiation exposure in childhood, family history, and some inherited conditions.