Overview

Thyroid cancer is a condition that arises from the abnormal growth of cells in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. While thyroid cancer is relatively rare compared to other cancers, its incidence has been increasing in recent years. Fortunately, most thyroid cancers are highly treatable, especially when detected early. This article provides an overview of the types of thyroid cancer, treatment options, and associated costs in euros to help patients make informed decisions about their care.

Types

Thyroid cancer is classified into several types based on the specific cells involved and their behavior. The main types include:

Papillary Thyroid Cancer (PTC)

• The most common type, accounting for about 80% of cases.
• It grows slowly and often spreads to lymph nodes in the neck.
• Highly treatable with a favorable prognosis.

Follicular Thyroid Cancer (FTC)

• Represents about 10-15% of thyroid cancer cases.
• It can spread to distant organs like the lungs or bones.
• Treatment is generally effective, but the prognosis depends on the extent of spread.

Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC)

• Accounts for about 4% of cases and originates from C cells in the thyroid.
• Can be hereditary (linked to genetic mutations) or sporadic.
• Requires specialized treatment due to its unique behavior.

Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer (ATC)

• The rarest and most aggressive form, making up less than 2% of cases.
• Grows rapidly and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage.
• Treatment options are limited, and the prognosis is poor.

Hurthle Cell Cancer

• A subtype of follicular thyroid cancer but tends to be more aggressive.
• Requires careful monitoring and treatment.

Treatment

Treatment Options for Thyroid Cancer

The choice of treatment depends on the type and stage of thyroid cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Below are the primary treatment options and their approximate costs in euros (€):

Surgery

• Total Thyroidectomy: Removal of the entire thyroid gland.
• Lobectomy: Removal of one lobe of the thyroid (for small, low-risk tumors).
• Lymph Node Dissection: Removal of affected lymph nodes if the cancer has spread.
• Cost: €15,000–€24,000, depending on the complexity and hospital fees.

Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy

• Used after surgery to destroy remaining thyroid tissue or cancer cells.
• Effective for papillary and follicular thyroid cancers.
• Cost: €4,500–€14,000 per treatment, including pre-therapy preparation and follow-up.

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

• Used for advanced or aggressive cancers, such as anaplastic thyroid cancer.
• Involves high-energy beams to target cancer cells.
• Cost: €9,000–€45,000, depending on the number of sessions.

Targeted Therapy

• Medications like Lenvatinib or Sorafenib target specific molecules in cancer cells.
• Used for advanced or metastatic thyroid cancer that does not respond to RAI.
• Cost: €16,000–€14,000 per month, depending on the drug and dosage.

Chemotherapy

• Rarely used for thyroid cancer, except for anaplastic thyroid cancer.
• Involves drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
• Cost: €1900–€4,700 per cycle, with multiple cycles required.

Hormone Therapy

• Thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) is prescribed after thyroidectomy to maintain normal body functions and suppress TSH, which can stimulate cancer growth.
• Cost: €18–€180 per month, depending on the brand and dosage.

💡 Factors Influencing Treatment Costs

The total cost of thyroid cancer treatment depends on several factors, including:

📌 The stage and type of cancer.
🔬 The complexity of the surgery or therapy.
📍 Geographic location and healthcare facility.
💰 Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses.
🩺 Additional costs for imaging, lab tests, and follow-up care.

Conclusion

Thyroid cancer is a manageable condition with a range of effective treatment options. Early detection and personalized care are key to achieving the best outcomes. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer, it’s essential to explore all available treatment options and work with a specialized healthcare team to develop a tailored plan.

For more information or to discuss your case, please contact us. We invite you to share your medical records for a comprehensive evaluation of your eligibility for advanced treatments. Together, we can create a treatment plan that prioritizes your health and well-being. Act now—your journey to recovery starts today.