Treatment Options For Hurthle Cell Cancer

Hurthle cell cancer is a type of malignant tumor that affects the thyroid, the butterfly-shaped gland in the neck. This gland is responsible for the secretion of hormones responsible for the regulation of the body's metabolism and other functions. Several types of cancer can affect the thyroid gland, but Hurthle cell cancer is the most aggressive variation. Many patients with Hurthle cell cancer will not experience symptoms prior to diagnosis. When symptoms do manifest, they include neck or throat pain, breathlessness, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, and a lump in the neck. Usually, Hurthle cell cancer is diagnosed using imaging tests, and the testing of a thyroid tissue sample called a biopsy. When Hurthle cell cancer spreads, it most commonly affects the lungs, lymphatic system, and bones. Hurthle cell cancer survival rates drop by over a fourth once it has metastasized beyond the thyroid, so early detection and aggressive treatment are crucial when considering treatment options.