If a malignant thyroid tumor is left untreated, cancer cells will continue to grow and metastasize to other areas. Cervical lymph nodes are the most common site of metastasis, leading to symptoms such as neck pain, hoarseness, discomfort when eating or drinking, swollen lymph nodes, and voice loss.

For thyroid cancer, metastasis to the cervical lymph nodes is considered regional. The majority of patients still have a good prognosis if they receive appropriate treatment during this stage. For papillary or follicular thyroid cancer, even with cervical lymph node metastasis, the 5-year survival rate from the time of diagnosis can be over 98%.

Doctor Hai advises a patient with thyroid cancer. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Total thyroidectomy combined with cervical lymph node dissection is the initial treatment for thyroid cancer that has spread to the cervical lymph nodes. Depending on the progression of the disease, you may be prescribed the following supplementary therapies:

Radioactive iodine (I-131) is used for certain differentiated thyroid cancer types, such as: papillary and follicular, to eliminate residual cancer cells and limit the risk of recurrence. Patients with thyroid cancer that has spread to lymph nodes will receive specific isolation guidelines, depending on the I-131 dose administered.

Hormone therapy with Levothyroxine, also known as TSH suppression therapy, is prescribed for differentiated and medullary thyroid cancer to limit the risk of disease recurrence. This therapy replaces thyroid hormones after a total thyroidectomy.

Radiation therapy, which may be combined with chemotherapy, serves as supportive treatment for undifferentiated thyroid cancer. Adjuvant radiation therapy may also be considered for some cases of differentiated or medullary thyroid cancer.

Patients should not worry and must strictly adhere to their doctor's treatment protocol. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet also plays an important role in improving treatment outcomes and long-term quality of life.

Dr. Tran Ngoc Hai, M.Sc.

Department of Oncology

Tam Anh General Clinic Cau Giay