Diagnosing Hurthle Cell Cancer
Hurthle cell cancer, also known as Hurthle cell carcinoma (HCC), is a rare type of thyroid cancer. It originates from the Hurthle cells, which are a specific type of cells found in the thyroid gland. These cells are responsible for producing thyroid hormones.
To diagnose HCC, several examinations, tests, and procedures may be done. These help confirm the diagnosis and determine the type, severity, or stage of the cancer. Here's what you need to know:
- Medical history and physical exam: Your doctor will start by taking your medical history and performing a physical exam. During the exam, they will feel your thyroid gland and check the lymph nodes in your neck for any abnormalities.
- Ultrasound: Healthcare professionals may use an ultrasound to check for and evaluate thyroid nodules. This imaging test uses sound waves to create pictures of the thyroid gland and can help identify any suspicious nodules.
- Radioiodine scan: A radioiodine scan can also be used to assess thyroid nodules. Nodules that take up a lot of radioactive iodine, known as "hot nodules," are rarely cancerous.
- Biopsy: If there are nodules that may be cancerous, a biopsy using fine needle aspiration (FNA) will be performed. During this procedure, a small sample of cells is taken from the nodule using a thin needle. The sample is then examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells.
- Molecular tests: Molecular tests may be conducted on the biopsy sample to identify cellular changes associated with cancer. These tests can help confirm a diagnosis of HCC.
- Additional tissue sample: In some cases, an FNA biopsy alone may not be sufficient to confirm a diagnosis of HCC. A larger tissue sample may be needed, which could involve removing half of the thyroid through a lobectomy.
Once HCC is diagnosed, additional examinations and tests may be done to determine the type, severity, or stage of the cancer:
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, and chest X-rays may be performed to see if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body. These tests provide detailed images that help doctors identify any metastasis or spread of cancer.
It's important to note that diagnosing HCC involves collaboration among different healthcare professionals:
- Primary care provider (PCP): Your PCP may be involved in referring you for further diagnostic procedures.
- Pathologist: A pathologist is responsible for examining tissue samples obtained during biopsies and identifying whether they contain cancer cells.
- Radiologist: Radiologists specialize in interpreting imaging tests such as ultrasounds, CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, and X-rays.
Remember, it's always essential to consult with your doctor if you have any concerns or symptoms related to Hürthle cell thyroid cancer. They will guide you through the necessary examinations and tests based on your specific situation.