Thyroid cancer may present with a neck lump, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, Dr. David Grant—an internationally recognized expert in head and neck surgery—offers compassionate, expert care. With personalized treatment and advanced diagnostics, we help you navigate every step of your thyroid cancer journey.
What is Thyroid Cancer?
Thyroid cancer is a malignant growth that arises from the cells of the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism through hormone production. While many thyroid nodules are benign, some can develop into cancerous tumors. Thyroid cancer is often detected as a painless lump in the neck and may cause symptoms such as voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or swelling. It typically grows slowly and is highly treatable, especially when diagnosed early. At Grant Thyroid Surgery, we use advanced imaging to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment.
Signs & Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer:
- A painless lump or swelling in the front of the neck
- Persistent hoarseness or voice changes
- Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck
- Pain in the neck or throat
- Swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck
- A persistent cough not related to a cold or illness
- Trouble breathing when lying down or turning the head
If Left Untreated:
If thyroid cancer is left untreated, it can grow and spread beyond the thyroid gland to nearby lymph nodes, the windpipe, or even distant organs such as the lungs or bones. This can lead to increasing symptoms, including breathing or swallowing difficulties and systemic complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent the cancer from advancing and to improve long-term outcomes. Prompt evaluation ensures the best chance for successful recovery.
Possible Causes of Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer develops when abnormal cells in the thyroid gland begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. While the exact cause is not always clear, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing thyroid cancer. These may include genetic, environmental, and lifestyle-related influences, such as:
- A history of radiation exposure to the head, neck, or chest
- A family history of thyroid cancer or genetic syndromes
- Certain inherited conditions, such as familial medullary thyroid cancer
- Being female, especially between the ages of 30 and 60
- Iodine deficiency or excess in the diet
- Chronic inflammation of the thyroid (thyroiditis)
How is Thyroid Cancer Diagnosed?
If you have a suspicious lump or symptoms, Dr. Grant will begin with a thorough examination and medical history. Diagnostic tests often include a neck ultrasound to assess the thyroid and surrounding lymph nodes. If a nodule appears concerning, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy may be performed to evaluate for cancerous cells. Additional blood tests and imaging, such as CT or PET scans, may be recommended to stage the cancer and guide your treatment plan.
Your Personalized Thyroid Cancer Treatment
Your care begins with a detailed evaluation by Dr. Grant, who tailors a treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis, symptoms, and overall health. With advanced training in head and neck surgical oncology, Dr. Grant offers expert guidance through every step of your journey. Whether your treatment involves surgery or other therapies, you can expect compassionate, coordinated care focused on achieving the best possible outcome.
Schedule Your Consultation
With Dr. Grant
Dr. David Grant is a board-certified head and neck surgeon with advanced fellowship training in surgical oncology. Known for his expertise in thyroid and parathyroid conditions, he provides compassionate, personalized care in a supportive environment. If you’ve been diagnosed with thyroid cancer or have concerns about a thyroid nodule, please schedule your consultation with Dr. Grant today to receive expert evaluation and guidance.
