Thyroid cancer is primarily classified into several types, based on the specific cells from which it originates. The main types of thyroid cancer include:
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC): This is the most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. PTC arises from follicular cells, which produce thyroid hormones. It usually grows slowly and has a favorable prognosis.
Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC): FTC also originates from follicular cells and accounts for about 10-15% of thyroid cancer cases. It tends to spread to other organs more frequently than PTC.
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC): MTC arises from the parafollicular cells (C cells) of the thyroid gland, which produce calcitonin. It represents about 5-10% of thyroid cancers and can be associated with inherited genetic mutations.
Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: This is a rare and aggressive type of thyroid cancer that originates from follicular cells. It grows rapidly and is often challenging to treat.
Hurthle cell carcinoma (also known as oxyphilic cell carcinoma): Hurthle cell carcinoma is a subtype of follicular thyroid carcinoma. It is characterized by the presence of Hurthle cells, which are large, eosinophilic cells with abundant granular cytoplasm.
Thyroid lymphoma: This is a rare type of thyroid cancer that originates from lymphocytes within the thyroid gland. It is usually non-Hodgkin lymphoma.