Medullary thyroid carcinoma or Cancer ; Definition, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare type of thyroid cancer that originates from the parafollicular C cells of the thyroid gland. These cells produce the hormone calcitonin1. Here are some key points about MTC:

Characteristics
Type: MTC is a form of thyroid carcinoma that arises from the parafollicular cells (C cells).

Incidence: MTC accounts for about 1-2% of all thyroid cancers.

Causes
Genetic Factors: Approximately 25% of MTC cases are hereditary and linked to Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2). The rest are sporadic with no known cause1.

Genetic Mutation: The RET proto-oncogene mutation is responsible for hereditary MTC.

Symptoms
Common Symptoms: Diarrhea, flushing episodes, and a thyroid nodule.

Advanced Symptoms: Enlarged cervical lymph nodes, liver, lung, and bone metastasis.

Diagnosis
Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI are used to detect and evaluate MTC1.

Blood Tests: Elevated levels of calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) can indicate MTC.

Treatment
Surgery: The primary treatment is surgical removal of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy).

Genetic Testing: For hereditary cases, genetic testing for the RET proto-oncogene can help identify at-risk family members.

Additional Treatments: Radiation therapy and targeted therapies may be used for advanced cases1.

Prognosis
Survival Rate: The prognosis varies depending on the stage at diagnosis and whether the cancer is sporadic or hereditary

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