Question 1

What is Thyroid Cancer?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid cancer is a malignancy that develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the thyroid gland. It is caused by genetic mutations in thyroid cells, with BRAF mutations being particularly common in papillary thyroid cancer. The Thyroglobulin LC/MS/MS test is the most important blood test for monitoring thyroid cancer after treatment, as rising levels indicate potential cancer recurrence.

Question 2

What causes thyroid cancer?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid cancer is caused by genetic mutations in thyroid cells that cause them to grow and divide uncontrollably. BRAF gene mutations are particularly common in papillary thyroid cancer, the most frequent type. Other causes include RET/PTC gene rearrangements, RAS mutations, and exposure to radiation, especially during childhood. Certain hereditary conditions like familial medullary thyroid cancer and multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes also increase risk through inherited genetic changes.

Question 3

What is the best test for thyroid cancer?

Accepted Answer

The Thyroglobulin LC/MS/MS test is the most important blood test for monitoring thyroid cancer because it detects thyroglobulin, a protein that should be nearly undetectable after thyroid removal surgery. Rising thyroglobulin levels indicate potential cancer recurrence, making this test essential for long-term surveillance. The BRAF Mutation Analysis is also critical because it identifies genetic mutations that affect prognosis and treatment decisions in papillary thyroid cancer. The Thyroglobulin Antibody test is important to perform alongside thyroglobulin testing, as these antibodies can interfere with accurate measurement. While imaging and biopsy confirm initial diagnosis, these blood tests are invaluable for tracking treatment response and detecting recurrence early.

Question 4

When should I get tested for thyroid cancer?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice a lump or swelling in your neck, experience persistent hoarseness or voice changes, have difficulty swallowing, or feel unexplained pain in your neck or throat. Testing is especially important if you have a family history of thyroid cancer or were exposed to radiation during childhood. After thyroid cancer treatment, regular thyroglobulin monitoring every 6-12 months is essential for detecting recurrence early, even if you feel perfectly healthy.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of thyroid cancer?

Accepted Answer

Thyroid cancer often causes no symptoms in early stages, but as it progresses, you might notice a lump or nodule in the front of your neck that you can feel. Other symptoms include persistent hoarseness or voice changes that do not go away, difficulty swallowing or breathing, pain in the neck or throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and a persistent cough not related to a cold. Many people discover thyroid cancer incidentally during imaging for unrelated issues, which is why awareness of these symptoms is important for early detection.

Question 6

Who is at risk for thyroid cancer?

Accepted Answer

Women are three times more likely to develop thyroid cancer than men, with most cases occurring between ages 30 and 60. People exposed to radiation therapy to the head, neck, or chest during childhood have significantly increased risk. Those with a family history of thyroid cancer or hereditary syndromes like familial medullary thyroid cancer, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, or familial adenomatous polyposis face higher risk. Other risk factors include having certain thyroid conditions like goiter or thyroid nodules, being of Asian descent, having inadequate iodine intake, and obesity.

Question 7

What happens if thyroid cancer is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated thyroid cancer can grow larger and spread to nearby structures in the neck, including the trachea, esophagus, and larynx, causing breathing and swallowing difficulties. The cancer can metastasize to lymph nodes in the neck and eventually to distant organs like the lungs, bones, and liver. Advanced thyroid cancer can cause severe pain, difficulty breathing, persistent coughing with blood, and significant weight loss. While most thyroid cancers grow slowly and are highly treatable when caught early, delayed treatment allows progression to more aggressive stages that are harder to cure and may become life-threatening.

Question 8

Can thyroid cancer be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot diagnose thyroid cancer initially, as diagnosis requires imaging studies like ultrasound and a fine needle aspiration biopsy to examine thyroid tissue. However, blood tests play a crucial supporting role in thyroid cancer management. The Thyroglobulin test is essential for monitoring cancer recurrence after treatment, while BRAF Mutation Analysis helps determine prognosis and guide treatment decisions. Thyroid function tests like TSH, T3, and T4 assess hormone levels, and calcitonin blood tests can help diagnose medullary thyroid cancer specifically. Blood tests are most valuable for post-treatment surveillance and long-term monitoring rather than initial diagnosis.

Question 9

How is thyroid cancer treated?

Accepted Answer

Surgery to remove all or part of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) is the primary treatment for most thyroid cancers. After surgery, radioactive iodine therapy is often used to destroy any remaining thyroid tissue and cancer cells. Thyroid hormone therapy follows to replace hormones your body no longer produces and suppress TSH levels that could stimulate cancer growth. External beam radiation therapy may be used for cancers that do not respond to radioactive iodine or have spread beyond the thyroid. Targeted therapy drugs that attack specific genetic mutations like BRAF or RET are increasingly used for advanced or recurrent cases. Chemotherapy is rarely needed but may be an option for aggressive thyroid cancers that do not respond to other treatments.

Question 10

How can I prevent thyroid cancer?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot prevent all thyroid cancers, you can reduce risk by avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure to the head and neck, especially in children. If you have a strong family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, genetic testing and prophylactic thyroidectomy may be recommended. Maintaining adequate iodine intake through iodized salt and seafood supports thyroid health, though excessive iodine should be avoided. Regular self-examination of your neck for lumps and routine medical checkups help detect thyroid abnormalities early when they are most treatable. If you were exposed to radiation as a child, discuss thyroid screening with your doctor.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support thyroid cancer treatment?

Accepted Answer

Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall health during treatment. Stay well-hydrated and get adequate rest to help your body recover from surgery and other treatments. Gentle exercise like walking can improve energy levels and mood, but listen to your body and rest when needed. Manage stress through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or support groups for cancer patients. After radioactive iodine treatment, follow a low-iodine diet as directed by your doctor. Take thyroid hormone replacement medication exactly as prescribed, ideally on an empty stomach at the same time each day, and attend all follow-up appointments for thyroglobulin monitoring to catch any recurrence early.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Thyroid Cancer Blood Test

What is Thyroid Cancer?

What causes thyroid cancer?

What is the best test for thyroid cancer?

When should I get tested for thyroid cancer?

References

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