An ultrasound of Nhi's thyroid at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, revealed multiple scattered nodules in both thyroid lobes, with the largest measuring 2,5 cm. A needle biopsy confirmed thyroid cancer.

Dr. Nguyen Duc Nghia, from the Thoracic and Vascular Surgery Center, explained that the 2,5 cm thyroid nodule and numerous scattered cancer foci in both lobes indicated the tumor had likely developed silently for a long time without the patient's knowledge. The tumor had penetrated its capsule, spreading through the lymphatic system to many dense clusters of lymph nodes on the left side of the neck, adhering closely to the pre-tracheal region and both sides of the neck, and attaching to critical anatomical structures.

Doctors scheduled a total thyroidectomy and lymph node dissection. However, Nhi had a history of hepatitis B, and her liver enzymes were suddenly elevated before surgery. The surgical team had to postpone the operation to provide medical treatment combined with a nutritional regimen to lower her liver enzymes. After two weeks, Nhi was deemed fit for surgery.

Dr. Nghia (right) and the surgical team treating a patient with thyroid cancer. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The surgical team carefully dissected the entire thyroid gland from vital neck structures and cleared the lymph node groups to prevent cancer recurrence. They also preserved the recurrent laryngeal nerve and parathyroid glands. This careful approach helped Nhi avoid complications such as hoarseness or hand numbness due to post-operative hypocalcemia.

Post-surgery, Nhi recovered well, experienced minimal incision pain, could eat, and was discharged after four days. She continued adjuvant treatment with oral radioactive iodine (I-131) to destroy any remaining cancer cells or metastatic foci, reducing the long-term risk of recurrence. Additionally, Nhi needs to take thyroid hormone medication to supplement the deficient hormone and maintain metabolic activities since her entire thyroid gland was removed.

According to Globocan 2022, new cases of thyroid cancer ranked sixth among all cancer types in Vietnam. The disease typically affects individuals between 40 and 70 years old and is more common in women than men.

Early detection of small tumors allows for radical treatment, thyroid preservation, and a better prognosis. Dr. Nghia advises everyone to undergo regular health check-ups. Individuals with risk factors, such as a family history of thyroid cancer, endocrine tumor syndromes, previous exposure to head and neck radiation, adult women, or those carrying genetic mutations, should undergo screening as guided by a doctor.

Bao Anh

*Patient's name has been changed