Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is a rare, aggressive form of thyroid cancer that progresses rapidly and requires prompt, specialized treatment. At Emirates Hospitals, we provide comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for patients diagnosed with ATC, combining advanced medical therapies with compassionate, personalized support.

Anaplastic thyroid cancer originates in the thyroid gland and is characterized by its rapid growth and potential to spread to nearby tissues and distant organs. Though uncommon, ATC accounts for a significant proportion of thyroid cancer fatalities due to its aggressive nature. Common symptoms include a rapidly growing neck mass, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and hoarseness. Because early intervention is crucial, our expert team prioritizes swift and precise diagnosis and immediate treatment initiation.

Diagnosis and Advanced Imaging

Emirates Hospitals offers advanced diagnostic services, including imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRI, and PET scans, to assess the extent of the cancer. Our diagnostic approach also involves a fine-needle biopsy, blood tests, and molecular testing to accurately characterize the tumor and guide the treatment plan.

Personalized Treatment Options

Given ATC’s aggressive nature, we tailor our treatment plans to each patient’s needs, focusing on combining therapies for the best possible outcomes. Treatment may include:

• Surgery: For localized tumors, surgical removal of the thyroid and affected tissues may be an option to control the cancer’s spread.
• Radiation Therapy: High-dose radiation therapy targets and kills cancer cells, helping to shrink the tumor and prevent further growth.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs are often used in conjunction with radiation therapy to slow the progression of cancer.
• Targeted Therapies: For certain genetic mutations, targeted therapies attack specific proteins in the cancer cells, offering new hope in managing ATC.
• Palliative Care: To manage symptoms and improve quality of life, our team offers supportive care focused on reducing discomfort.