Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common type and generally has an excellent prognosis. Treatment is tailored to tumour size, lymph nodes and extrathyroidal extension.
Selected small (often <1 cm), low-risk papillary cancers can be treated with lobectomy and active surveillance. Larger or higher-risk tumours need total thyroidectomy and possibly central neck dissection.
Risk Stratification
Tumour size, microscopic invasion, lymph node involvement, extrathyroidal extension and multifocality all shape the plan.
Symptoms
- Usually none
- Firm neck nodule
- Enlarged neck lymph node
Diagnosis and Assessment
- Ultrasound
- FNA biopsy
- Hormone tests
- Neck CT in advanced disease
Treatment Options
- Lobectomy in selected small low-risk disease
- Total thyroidectomy +/- central neck dissection
- Lateral neck dissection if lateral nodes involved
- Radioactive iodine when indicated
When Is Surgery Considered?
- Biopsy-confirmed papillary cancer
- Suspicious nodule with high-risk features
Surgical Methods
- Standard cervical incision
- IONM
- Parathyroid preservation
Preoperative Preparation
- Imaging review
- Vocal cord assessment when indicated
Postoperative Follow-up
- Levothyroxine
- Thyroglobulin and ultrasound follow-up
- Radioactive iodine planning where indicated
Risks and Safe Surgery
- Voice change
- Low calcium
- Bleeding
- Scar
Process in Antalya
Pathology, ultrasound and lymph node mapping are reviewed together; the plan balances cure with quality of life.
When to Seek Urgent Care
- • Acute neck swelling
- • Severe breathlessness
- • Severe low-calcium symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Pages
Share Your Reports for Initial Guidance
Hello, I would like to request a pre-evaluation for thyroid/goiter/thyroid nodule. I can share my ultrasound, biopsy and blood test results.
This information is provided for general patient education only and does not replace diagnosis, treatment or a surgical decision. Personal evaluation requires a clinical examination and the necessary tests.
Last updated: 27 June 2026 · Medical content review: Op.Dr.Gökhan ATEŞ
Thyroid & Goiter Surgery Antalya · Özel Antalya Medicalpark Hospital