Follicular thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the follicular cells of the thyroid gland, which is located in the lower front part of the neck. These cells produce thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism. This cancer tends to grow slowly and may not cause obvious symptoms in its early stages, making it important to recognize subtle signs that could indicate its presence.
One of the most common signs of follicular thyroid cancer is the presence of a **painless lump or nodule in the neck**. This lump can often be felt by the patient or noticed by a doctor during a routine neck examination. Sometimes, people discover it themselves while looking in the mirror or when buttoning a shirt or fastening a necklace. The lump is usually firm and does not move much when swallowing[2][4][5].
As the cancer grows, it may cause **neck discomfort or pain**, which can sometimes extend to the jaw or ears. This pain is not always present but can be a warning sign if it occurs[1][2][3]. The lump may also cause a feeling of tightness or pressure in the neck, especially if it grows large enough to press on nearby structures.
Follicular thyroid cancer can also lead to **difficulty swallowing** or a sensation that food is getting stuck in the throat. This happens when the tumor presses against the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Similarly, if the tumor compresses the windpipe (trachea), it can cause **difficulty breathing** or a feeling of shortness of breath[1][2][3][7].
Another important symptom to watch for is **hoarseness or changes in the voice**. This occurs if the cancer invades or irritates the nerves that control the vocal cords. Persistent hoarseness lasting more than two weeks should prompt medical evaluation[1][2][4][7].
In some cases, follicular thyroid cancer can spread beyond the thyroid gland to nearby lymph nodes or distant parts of the body such as bones or lungs. When it spreads to lymph nodes in the neck, you might notice **enlarged lymph nodes** or swollen areas that feel like lumps separate from the thyroid nodule itself[3][7]. If the cancer spreads to bones, such as the jawbone, symptoms can include **pain, swelling, loose teeth, difficulty opening the mouth (trismus), or numbness** in the jaw area[6].
Because follicular thyroid cancer can affect hormone production, some patients may experience **unexplained changes in weight**, either weight gain or loss, due to altered thyroid hormone levels. However, many patients have normal thyroid function tests even when cancer is present[1][2].
Other less specific symptoms that might be linked to follicular thyroid cancer include **fatigue, anxiety, depression, or changes in menstrual cycles** in women. These symptoms are related to hormonal imbalances caused by the cancer but are not unique to it and can be caused by many other conditions[1].
It is important to note that many thyroid nodules are benign and do not cause symptoms. Follicular thyroid cancer often does not produce symptoms until it grows large or spreads. Therefore, regular medical check-ups that include neck examination are crucial for early detection. If a suspicious nodule is found, doctors usually perform an ultrasound and may recommend a fine needle aspiration biopsy to determine if cancer cells are present[2].
In summary, the signs of follicular thyroid cancer include:
– A painless lump or nodule in the neck
– Neck pain or discomfort, sometimes extending to jaw or ears
– Difficulty swallowing or feeling of food stuck in the throat
– Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
– Hoarseness or voice changes lasting more than two weeks
– Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
– Symptoms related to spread to bones, such as jaw pain or swelling
– Unexplained weight changes
– Fatigue, anxiet
