Stages of thyroid cancer
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Stages of thyroid cancer are of four main types. Each of them is characterized by its own peculiarities.
In the first stage, the size of the tumor can be any. It is found in the thyroid gland. At this stage, the 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.
The third stage defines several basic criteria. So, the tumor is more than 4 centimeters, and it significantly extends beyond the area of the thyroid gland itself. It can spread to tissues in the immediate vicinity of it.
At the fourth stage there are also certain criteria. So, the tumor has any size and spreads not only to the thyroid gland, but also surrounding tissues, as well as the trachea, esophagus and larynx. As a result, the laryngeal nerve is squeezed. In stage 4-B, the cancer extends to the tissues located in the anterior part of the spinal column. In stage 4 - C, the tumor has any size and gradually spreads to other parts of the body. In this case, thyroid cancer is not so easy to eliminate.
The presence of the zero stage is typical for medullary neoplasm. On which it is possible to determine the presence of cancer exclusively with the help of special screening tests. The tumor has not yet begun its growth and to eliminate thyroid cancer in this case is much easier.
[Thyroid cancer of Stage 1
Cancer of the thyroid gland of the 1st stage does not manifest itself particularly. The size of the tumor at this stage can be anything and it is found mainly in the gland itself. In some cases, its distribution to nearby tissues and lymph nodes is not excluded. At this stage, the cancer is not able to spread to other parts of the body. This characteristic refers to the papillary and follicular form of the malignant neoplasm.
With medullary thyroid cancer, an increase in the tumor to 2 centimeters is observed. In some cases, it is too small and it is not so easy to recognize it.
Cancer of the thyroid gland 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 the initial stage. Determine the presence of the disease can be, because a person gradually begins to experience discomfort and he has some complaints about his own condition. For certain symptoms and diagnosis, thyroid cancer is defined.
Thyroid cancer Stage 2
Cancer of the thyroid gland of the 2nd stage has a more pronounced appearance. The size of the tumor can be any, but the neoplasm thus significantly spread beyond the gland. Lymph nodes can be affected. This is characteristic of the papillary and follicular type of malignant tumor.
In medullary neoplasm one or two basic conditions are met. So, 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 borders. The second condition is the presence of a tumor of any size that could spread to the tissues that are near the site of the appearance of the tumor. Lymph nodes in this case do not suffer at all.
In the second stage, the problem is a little more difficult to deal with, but all of this can be corrected. Unfortunately, not many people pay attention to the first symptoms of the disease and seek help late. Therefore, thyroid cancer can not always be eliminated.
Thyroid Cancer Stage 3
Thyroid cancer of the 3rd stage is determined by certain criteria. Thus, the formation of a tumor more than 4 cm is possible, mainly only the thyroid gland is affected. In some cases, the neoplasm extends beyond and extends 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 afflicted the lymph nodes in the trachea or larynx.
With medullary thyroid cancer, the tumor has any size. It extends to the lymph nodes that are near the trachea and larynx. Possible damage to tissues next to the thyroid gland.
Eliminating the tumor at this stage is not so simple. You need a qualified surgical procedure. The tumor significantly increases and brings a person not a small discomfort. Eliminate thyroid cancer at this stage is difficult, but there is a chance.
Thyroid cancer 4 degrees
Thyroid cancer of the 4th degree carries a special danger. One of the main criteria is fulfilled. The first option implies the presence of a tumor of any size, with the cancer spreading beyond the area of the lesion. It affects the trachea, esophagus and larynx. Perhaps squeezing the laryngeal nerve.
The second option involves a tumor of any size, with the cancer spreading to the tissues that are located nearby the affected area. Affected lymph nodes or lungs on both sides.
At stage 4-B, the cancer extends significantly to the anterior, part of the vertebral column, or surrounds the carotid artery. Lymph nodes can be affected.
At stage 4-C, the tumor can be of any size and at the same time spread to other parts of the body. Including lungs and even bones. Lymph nodes can be affected. At this stage, thyroid cancer has the same symptoms both in the papillary and follicular and medullary forms.
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