Stage 1 early stage thyroid cancer is a diagnosis made when a malignant tumor has been found in the thyroid gland, but has not yet spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. It is considered the least advanced stage of thyroid cancer and can often be successfully treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of the two.
In stage 1, the cancer is often small and localized. It is usually diagnosed after a biopsy or imaging of the thyroid gland. During a biopsy, a sample of tissue is taken from the area of concern and sent to a laboratory for testing. Depending on the results, surgery may be recommended to remove the tumor and some surrounding tissue.
Radiation therapy is also commonly used to treat stage 1 thyroid cancer, where a machine delivers radiation to the cancerous area. This radiation kills the cancer cells, while also protecting nearby healthy cells.
Stage 1 thyroid cancer is generally very treatable and the prognosis is good. However, it is important to monitor the cancer closely, as it can still spread to other parts of the body. Regular check-ups with the doctor, as well as follow-up tests and scans, are an important part of managing stage 1 thyroid cancer.