Thyroid cancer - a surgeon's view

Thyroid cancer comprises a family of rare and differing tumours. Radiation and iodine play a part in causation. Ultra sound and needle cytology should improve diagnosis. Sub-total thyroidectomy promises the safest method of primary excision for cure. Radio-iodine and Beam radiation and thyroid supplements play supporting roles. Tumour type, stage and age largely determine the outcome. Thus treatment should carry a low morbidity.