What is Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma?
Medullary thyroid carcinoma originates from the C cells of the thyroid that secretes calcitonin hormone. Calcitonin maintains blood calcium levels in the human body. 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. Among the types of thyroid cancer, it is the most common and accounts for approximately 3% of all types of thyroid cancer. It tends to spread to other parts of the body such as lymph nodes, neck, chest, lungs, liver, skin and bones.Disease Epidemiology
It accounts for approximately 2-3% of all medullary thyroid tumours. The annual incidence of new cases is approximately 14 per 100,000 in the United States. The average age of onset of isolated Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma is 50 to 60 years.Disease Etiology
A mutation (changes in DNA) in a particular gene, called the RET-proto oncogene, is responsible for the development of medullary thyroid carcinoma.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- A mass or lump at the base of the neck
- Some patients may suffer from the difficulty in swallowing, hoarse voice and difficulty in breathing.
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Bone pains
- Lethargy
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic procedures and techniques can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Serum calcitonin levels
- USG(Ultrasonography) neck and thyroid
- Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and histopathology
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.What Support can we Give for Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma?
Medullary 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 Medullary 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.
