Follicular thyroid cancer history and symptoms

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ammu Susheela, M.D. [2]

The hallmark of follicular thyroid cancer is swelling in the neck. Positive history of irradiation of head and neck, rapid growth of the nodule, and family history of follicular thyroid carcinoma are usually suggestive of follicular thyroid cancer. The most common symptoms of follicular thyroid cancer include swelling in the neck, pain in the front of the neck, and hoarseness of voice.

• Positive history of irradiation of head and neck
• Family history of follicular carcinoma
• Positive history of rapid growth of the nodule
• Positive history of increased growth of the tumor while undergoing suppressive therapy with L-thyroxine^[1]
• Positive history of change in voice and hoarseness of voice

• Early thyroid cancer does not have any symptoms.
• As the tumor grows larger, people may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

• A nodule, lump, or swelling in the neck
• Pain in the front of the neck
• Hoarseness or other voice changes
• Trouble swallowing
• Breathing problems
• Chronic cough