Medullary 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 medullary thyroid cancer is a lump in the neck. A positive family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia is suggestive of medullary thyroid cancer. The most common symptoms of medullary thyroid cancer include diarrhea, flushing, and dysphagia.

• Patients with medullary thyroid cancer may have a positive history of:^[1]
  • A family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia
  • Previous history of pheochromocytoma, mucosal neuroma, or hyperparathyroidism

• Common symptoms of medullary thyroid cancer include:^[2]
  • Lump in the neck (metastatic lymphadenopathy)
  • Thyroid nodules

• Less common symptoms of medullary thyroid cancer include:^[2]
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Hoarseness of voice
  • Cough
  • Cough with blood
  • Diarrhea
  • Itching
  • Flushing

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