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Stages of thyroid cancer
Last reviewed: 08.07.2025
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There are four main stages of thyroid cancer, each with its own characteristics.
At the first stage, the tumor can be any size. It is located in the thyroid gland. At this stage, cancer does not spread to other parts of the body.
The second stage is characterized by an increase in the tumor; at this stage it can be of any size and even spread to other parts of the body.
At the third stage, several main criteria are determined. Thus, the tumor is more than 4 centimeters, and it significantly extends beyond the thyroid gland itself. It is capable of spreading to tissues in close proximity to it.
At stage 4, there are also certain criteria. Thus, the tumor is of any size and spreads not only to the thyroid gland, but also to the surrounding tissues, as well as the trachea, esophagus and larynx. As a result, the laryngeal nerve is compressed. At stage 4 - B, the cancer spreads to the tissues located in the front of the spinal column. At stage 4 - C, the tumor is of any size and gradually spreads to other parts of the body. In this case, thyroid cancer is not so easy to eliminate.
Medullary neoplasms are characterized by the presence of stage zero. At this stage, the presence of cancer can only be determined using special screening tests. The tumor has not yet begun to grow and it is much easier to eliminate thyroid cancer in this case.
[ Thyroid cancer stage 1
Thyroid cancer stage 1 does not manifest itself in particular. The tumor size at this stage can be any and it is located mainly in the gland itself. In some cases, its spread to nearby tissues and lymph nodes is not excluded. At this stage, cancer is not able to spread to other parts of the body. This characteristic applies to the papillary and follicular types of malignant neoplasms.
In medullary thyroid cancer, the tumor grows to 2 centimeters. In some cases, it is too small and difficult to recognize.
Thyroid cancer at this stage can be quickly and effectively eliminated. But in this case, much depends on the person himself, as well as the characteristics of his body.
The first stage is considered initial. It is possible to determine the presence of the disease, because a person gradually begins to experience discomfort and has some complaints about his own condition. Thyroid cancer is determined by certain symptoms and diagnostics.
Thyroid cancer stage 2
Thyroid cancer stage 2 has a more pronounced appearance. The tumor can be of any size, but the neoplasm has spread significantly beyond the gland. Lymph nodes may be affected. This is typical for papillary and follicular types of malignant tumors.
In case of medullary neoplasm, one or two main conditions are met. Thus, the size of the tumor is within 2 cm, its location is limited only by the thyroid gland itself, it does not go beyond the boundaries. The second condition is the presence of a tumor of any size, which was able to spread to the tissues that are near the site of the tumor. The lymph nodes are not affected at all.
At the second stage, it is a little more difficult to fight the problem, but all this can be corrected. Unfortunately, not many people pay attention to the first symptoms of the disease and seek help late. Therefore, thyroid cancer is not always possible to eliminate.
Thyroid cancer stage 3
Thyroid cancer stage 3 is determined by some criteria. Thus, it is possible for a tumor to form larger than 4 cm, mostly only the thyroid gland area is affected. In some cases, the tumor goes beyond and spreads to nearby tissues. Lymph nodes are not affected at this stage. The second criterion is the presence of a tumor of any size that has spread to nearby tissues and affected the lymph nodes in the trachea or larynx.
In medullary thyroid cancer, the tumor can be any size. It spreads to the lymph nodes that are near the trachea and larynx. It is possible that tissues near the thyroid gland may be affected.
It is not so easy to remove the tumor at this stage. A qualified surgical intervention is needed. The tumor increases significantly and brings a person considerable discomfort. It is difficult to remove thyroid cancer at this stage, but there is a chance.
Thyroid cancer stage 4
Stage 4 thyroid cancer is especially dangerous. One of the main criteria is met. The first option implies the presence of a tumor of any size, and the cancer spreads beyond the affected area. It affects the trachea, esophagus and larynx. Compression of the laryngeal nerve is possible.
The second option involves a tumor of any size, and the cancer has spread to tissues near the affected area. Lymph nodes or lungs on both sides are affected.
At stage 4-B, the cancer has spread significantly into the front of the spine or around the carotid artery. Lymph nodes may be involved.
At stage 4-C, the tumor can be of any size and spread to other parts of the body. Including the lungs and even bones. Lymph nodes may be affected. At this stage, thyroid cancer has the same symptoms as papillary, follicular, and medullary types.
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