Thyroid Cancer Treatment
For people with thyroid cancer, treatment options for the disease may include surgery, radiation therapy, radioactive iodine treatment, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or a combination of these. Factors that may affect treatment for thyroid cancer include such things as the type of thyroid cancer involved, the stage of the cancer, and the patient's age and general health. Once thyroid cancer treatment is complete, follow-up care (including regular checkups) can help ensure that any changes in the patient's health are detected early.
Thyroid Cancer Treatment: An Overview
- The type of thyroid cancer
- The stage of thyroid cancer (see Thyroid Cancer Staging)
- The size of the nodule
- Whether the cancer has spread
- The patient's age and general health.
In general, thyroid cancer treatment options can include:
Patients should work with their doctor to develop a treatment plan that meets their medical needs and personal values. Choosing the most appropriate thyroid cancer treatment is a decision that ideally involves the patient, the family, and the healthcare team.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD