Papillary thyroid cancer

Overview

Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common form of cancer of the butterfly-shaped gland in the neck (thyroid). It arises from follicular cells, which produce and store thyroid hormones. Papillary thyroid cancer can occur at any age, but it most often affects people ages 30-50.

Symptoms

Symptoms include a lump on the neck, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing.

Treatments

Treatment, which is usually successful, includes surgery, hormone therapy, radioactive iodine, radiation, and medications.