Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer involves the abnormal growth of cells in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. When cells in the thyroid begin to multiply uncontrollably, they form tumours that can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. Thyroid cancer affects the endocrine system’s ability to maintain hormonal balance, which may lead to various physiological disruptions depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Dr Donovan Tay

Senior Consultant Endocrinologist

Dr Ben Ng

Senior Consultant Endocrinologist

Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer

The following signs and symptoms may indicate the presence of thyroid cancer.

Neck lump or nodule

A noticeable lump or swelling in the front of the neck that can be felt through the skin. The nodule typically moves upward when swallowing and may grow gradually over time.
Neck pain

Discomfort or pain in the neck area, particularly when pressure is applied. The pain may radiate to the ears in some cases.
Voice changes

Hoarseness or changes in voice quality that persist for more than two weeks. This occurs when tumours affect the laryngeal nerves near the thyroid.
Difficulty swallowing

Problems with swallowing (dysphagia) due to the tumour pressing on the oesophagus. The sensation may feel like food is getting stuck in the throat.
Difficulty breathing

Shortness of breath or a feeling of being smothered, especially when lying flat. This happens when larger tumours compress the trachea.
Enlarged lymph nodes

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck that feel firm, do not move easily, and gradually increase in size. These indicate the potential spread of cancer cells to the lymphatic system.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing thyroid cancer. These include:

Radiation exposure

Previous radiation treatment to the head, neck, or chest area, especially during childhood. Radiation damages thyroid DNA, potentially leading to cancerous mutations years after exposure.

Family history

Having first-degree relatives diagnosed with thyroid cancer or inherited genetic syndromes. Certain genetic mutations can be passed down through families, increasing susceptibility.

Gender and age

Being female or between 25-65 years old. Women are three times more likely to develop thyroid cancer, with risk peaking during reproductive years.

Pre-existing thyroid conditions

Having chronic thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s disease) or goitre. Long-term inflammation and irregular growth patterns can create an environment conducive to cancerous changes.

Genetic mutations

Spontaneous changes in genes controlling cell growth and division. These mutations can occur throughout life and affect how thyroid cells behave.

Diagnostic Methods

Physical examination

A thorough neck examination is performed to feel for nodules, swelling, or lymph node enlargement. The doctor checks for lumps that move with swallowing and assesses their firmness and size.
Blood tests

Comprehensive thyroid function tests measuring levels of thyroid hormones (T3, T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). These tests evaluate thyroid function but generally cannot diagnose cancer directly.
Ultrasound

A non-invasive imaging technique using sound waves to create detailed images of the thyroid gland. It helps determine the size and characteristics of nodules, distinguish solid masses from fluid-filled cysts, and guide fine needle aspiration procedures.
Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy

A procedure where a thin needle extracts cells from suspicious thyroid nodules for microscopic examination. This is the most reliable method for determining whether a thyroid nodule is cancerous, benign, or indeterminate.
Thyroid scan (radioiodine scan)

An imaging test using a small amount of radioactive iodine to evaluate thyroid function and structure. The scan shows areas of increased or decreased iodine uptake, helping identify nodules that are unlikely to be cancerous (“hot”) versus those with higher cancer risk (“cold”).

Treatment Options

The management of thyroid cancer incorporates several approaches based on the type, stage, and individual patient factors.

Surgical intervention followed by Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy: Surgical removal of the offending thyroid cancer/nodule is often required. This may involve removing part of the gland or the whole thyroid gland, depending on the staging and size of the thyroid cancer. Following this, an oral treatment containing radioactive iodine that destroys remaining thyroid tissue after surgery may be required. The radioactive iodine is absorbed specifically by thyroid cells, including cancerous cells that may have spread, while minimally affecting other body tissues.
Thyroid hormone therapy: Daily medication that replaces natural thyroid hormones after thyroid removal and helps prevent cancer recurrence. The medication suppresses TSH production, which may otherwise stimulate growth of any remaining cancer cells.

Concerned about thyroid or adrenal conditions?

Consult our MOH-accredited endocrinologist for a thorough evaluation and tailored management plan today.

Make an Enquiry

Prevention and Management

Regular thyroid function monitoring and neck examinations assist in the early detection of potential issues. After diagnosis and treatment, endocrinologists provide ongoing management through thyroid hormone replacement therapy, regular blood tests to check hormone levels, and periodic imaging studies. Follow-up care focuses on maintaining appropriate hormone balance while monitoring for possible recurrence through specialised thyroglobulin testing, a marker specific to thyroid tissue.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does thyroid cancer spread?

The growth rate varies by type. Papillary and follicular thyroid cancers typically grow slowly over years, while medullary thyroid cancer grows at a moderate pace. Anaplastic thyroid cancer is aggressive and can spread rapidly over weeks or months. Regular monitoring helps track any changes.

Can thyroid cancer come back after treatment?

Recurrence is possible, particularly in the first five years after treatment. The risk varies based on cancer type, stage, and initial treatment. Regular follow-up appointments with blood tests and imaging studies help detect and address recurrence early.

Does having a thyroid nodule mean I have cancer?

Most thyroid nodules are benign, with only about 5-10% being cancerous. Factors that increase suspicion include rapid growth, hard texture, irregular margins, family history of thyroid cancer, and certain ultrasound characteristics. Fine needle aspiration biopsy provides a definitive assessment.

Dr Ben Ng

Senior Consultant Endocrinologist

As a senior consultant endocrinologist with over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr Ben Ng provides comprehensive care for patients managing various endocrine conditions. His expertise includes the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, thyroid disorders, obesity, and a range of other metabolic and endocrine conditions.

Adj Asst Professor Dr Ben Ng Jen Min graduated from the Queens University of Belfast Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK).
He completed his postgraduate training with the certificate of completion of training (CCT) from the Royal College of Physicians (UK) with dual accreditation in diabetes and endocrinology and in general internal medicine.
In 2010, he was awarded an MD with honours by the University of Hull, UK, in recognition for his research in diabetes mellitus

Dr Donovan Tay

Senior Consultant Endocrinologist

As a senior consultant endocrinologist with over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Donovan Tay provides comprehensive care for patients managing various endocrine conditions. His expertise includes the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, and a range of other metabolic and endocrine conditions.

Dr. Donovan Tay graduated from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and obtained his membership in the Royal College of Physicians (UK), Master of Medicine (NUS), and Master of Clinical Investigation (NUS).
After completing training in endocrinology, he was conferred as a Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (FAMS).
He further specialised in endocrinology with a fellowship at the prestigious Columbia University Medical Centre in New York City.

billing & insurance

Payment Scheme, Health Insurance

We accept a wide selection of both local and international healthcare insurance to help you cover your medical treatment and follow-up care expenses. Rest assured, you can focus on your health & well-being with peace of mind. Kindly speak to our friendly clinic staff if you require any assistance for your healthcare insurance.