What is Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma?
Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma is a type of thyroid cancer. This is an aggressive type of cancer that can affect and invade the local organs surrounding the thyroid gland.
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland that secretes certain hormones that are responsible for regulating the metabolism, growth, and development of the human body.Disease Epidemiology
Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma accounts for approximately less than 2% of all thyroid cancers. It is slightly more common in women than in men, with a female to male ratio of 3: 1. The average age for developing anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is 60 years.Disease Etiology
Certain genetic mutations, iodine deficiency, and any underlying thyroid cancer contribute significantly to the development of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may present with the following signs and symptoms. These are- Rapidly growing mass or lump in the neck
- Neck pain
- Difficulty in breathing
- Cough
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Bone pains, lethargy, and weight loss where the cancer is spread to the distant parts of the body.
- Fever and night sweats
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Thyroid Function tests (T3, T4)
- Thyroid-stimulating suppressor tests
- Serum calcium levels to rule out the underlying medullary thyroid carcinoma
- Computerized tomography Chest and X-Ray bones to rule out cancer metastases (spread of the tumour from its origin to the other parts of the body) to the lungs and bones.
Treatment
Complete removal of the thyroid gland by surgery and switching to thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the main treatment option. Another treatment option is external beam radiation therapy. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are treatment options for advanced metastatic carcinoma.What Support can we Give for Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma?
Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
