Thyroid cancer - papillary carcinoma

Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid; Papillary thyroid cancer; Papillary thyroid carcinoma

Papillary carcinoma of the thyroid is the most common cancer of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located in front of the lower neck.

Endocrine glands

Endocrine glands release hormones (chemical messengers) into the bloodstream to be transported to various organs and tissues throughout the body. For instance, the pancreas secretes insulin, which allows the body to regulate levels of sugar in the blood. The thyroid gets instructions from the pituitary to secrete hormones which determine the rate of metabolism in the body (the more hormone in the bloodstream, the faster the chemical activity; the less hormone, the slower the activity).

Thyroid cancer - CT scan

This CT scan of the upper chest (thorax) shows a malignant thyroid tumor (cancer). The dark area around the trachea (marked by the white U-shaped tip of the respiratory tube) is an area where normal tissue has been eroded and died (necrosis) as a result of tumor growth.

Thyroid cancer - CT scan

This CT scan shows a thyroid cancer tumor in the throat, encircling, narrowing, and displacing the windpipe (trachea).

Thyroid enlargement - scintiscan

This image shows the enlargement of the thyroid gland and extension down behind the breastbone (retrosternal space). The image, called a scintiscan, was generated using a radioactive isotope.

Thyroid gland

The thyroid gland, a part of the endocrine (hormone) system, plays a major role in regulating the body's metabolism.

Causes

Symptoms

Exams and Tests

Treatment

Support Groups

Outlook (Prognosis)

Possible Complications

When to Contact a Medical Professional