Thyroid cancer can seem daunting, but the good news is, most new diagnoses are of a type called papillary thyroid cancer, which is often quite manageable. This cancer is typically low-risk, meaning it’s less likely to come back after treatment. “Low-risk” here refers to tumors smaller than 1 cm that don’t spread to other parts of the body.
If you’re facing this diagnosis, you have several treatment options at your disposal, such as surgery to remove the thyroid, radioactive iodine therapy, or active surveillance. Your doctor will work with you to pick the best approach, taking into account factors like your age, medical history, and the specific characteristics of your tumor.
Active Surveillance: A Gentle Approach
Let’s talk about active surveillance, a less invasive approach for managing low-risk papillary thyroid cancers. Sometimes called “active monitoring”, “watchful waiting”, or “expectant management,” this strategy involves keeping a close eye on the tumor without immediate surgery or more intensive treatments. Under active surveillance, your healthcare team will regularly check the tumor using ultrasounds—a type of imaging that lets doctors see inside your body. Typically, you’ll have an ultrasound twice a year for the first year after your diagnosis, and then annually. If the tumor starts to change or grow, your doctor might then recommend moving to a treatment plan involving surgery or radioactive iodine.
Weighing the Benefits of Active Surveillance
It’s natural to feel uneasy about leaving a tumor untreated. However, there are several benefits to consider with active surveillance:
- Reduced Surgical Risks: Since papillary thyroid cancers grow slowly, rushing into surgery might not be necessary and could even be more risky.
- Better Quality of Life: Avoiding immediate surgery can mean a better daily life experience for many patients.
- Postponing Radiation Therapy: This means you also delay any potential side effects from radiation.
Active surveillance has gained popularity as a treatment choice for certain patients. In 2015, the American Thyroid Association (ATA) released guidelines supporting active surveillance as a safe and effective way to manage low-risk papillary thyroid cancers. Further studies have shown that delaying surgery in active surveillance plans doesn’t typically result in harm. It’s crucial to have open conversations with your doctor about your preferences and concerns. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about each treatment option to make the most informed and comfortable decision for your health and well-being.
Conclusion
Navigating a papillary thyroid cancer diagnosis involves making choices, but understanding your options, like active surveillance, empowers you. This approach balances vigilant monitoring with maintaining quality of life, and respected guidelines and research support it. Remember, your unique health journey requires open dialogue with your healthcare team to find the path that best suits you. Embrace the journey with knowledge, support, and confidence, making informed decisions for your health and future.
