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Medullary carcinoma of thyroid - Overview

Alternative Names

Thyroid - medullary carcinoma; Cancer - thyroid (medullary carcinoma); MTC

Definition of Medullary carcinoma of thyroid:

Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid is cancer of the thyroid gland that starts in cells that release a hormone called calcitonin. Such cells are called "C" cells.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause is unknown. Unlike other types of thyroid cancer, medullary carcinoma of the thyroid (MTC) is believed to be related to radiation therapy (a type of cancer treatment).

There are two forms of MTC:

Sporadic MTC does not run in families. Most MTCs are sporadic. This form mainly affects older adults.
Inherited MTC runs in families.

You have an increased risk of medullary carcinoma of the thyroid if you have:

A family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN)
A prior history of pheochromocytoma, mucosal neuromas, or hyperparathyroidism

Other types of thyroid cancer include:

Thyroid cancer - CT scan

Thyroid gland

Reviewed last on: 3/21/2008
Stephen Grund, MD, PhD, Chief of Hematology/Oncology and Director of the George Bray Cancer Center at New Britain General Hospital, New Britain, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Ball DW. Medullary thyroid cancer: monitoring and therapy. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am. 2007;36(3):823-837.

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