Anaplastic thyroid cancer is a rare, fast-growing and aggressive cancer. In most instances, the first symptom is a lump in your neck.
We make use of the latest diagnostic tools, state-of-the-art research and advanced thyroid cancer knowledge to help you achieve optimal health. Our experts specialize in your exact type of cancer. This allows us to provide a highly accurate diagnosis — often at the genetic level so we can identify the best treatments.
Test
Ultrasound
Ultrasound can help your doctor determine if a thyroid nodule is solid or fluid-filled. It can also be used to check the number and size of thyroid nodules and to highlight nearby enlarged lymph nodes. Ultrasound uses high-energy sound waves, which bounce off internal tissues or organs to form a picture (sonogram).
CT Scan (Computed Tomography)
A CT scan, also called a CAT scan, takes a series of detailed pictures of inside your body, taken from different angles. It's used to determine the extent of cancer and plan treatment.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
MRI combines a magnet, radio waves and a computer to create a series of detailed pictures of the inside of your body. As with CT scans, MRI can help to determine the extent of cancer and plan treatment.
Biopsy
A biopsy is a tissue sample that’s examined for cancer cells. If cancer is found, a tumor genetic mutation analysis may be done to look for specific molecular features in the tumor. This helps us to create the most precise treatment recommendation.
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Blood Test
This test measures levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone and checks the overall activity of your thyroid gland. It can also help determine if you would benefit from thyroid hormone replacement therapy after surgery.
T3 and T4 (Thyroid Hormones) Blood Test
This test measures the levels of T3 and T4 hormones, the main hormones made by your thyroid gland. The levels tell your doctor about your thyroid gland function.
Thyroglobulin Test
Thyroglobulin is a protein made by your thyroid gland. This test is used after surgery to determine how your body responded. Treatment should lead to a very low level of thyroglobulin in the blood. If levels are high, you may need further treatment.
Calcitonin Test
Calcitonin is a hormone that helps control how your body uses calcium. It's made by C cells in your thyroid, which can develop into medullary thyroid cancer. This test is used to diagnose this type of cancer or its possible recurrence after treatment.
Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Test
People with medullary thyroid cancer often have high blood levels of this protein. This test can be used after treatment to monitor its effects..
Treatments
Radiation Therapy
Radiation is given twice a day, with or without chemotherapy.
Surgery
If you have an operable disease and it hasn't spread to other parts of your body, your doctor may recommend surgery before radiation and chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy (Systemic Medical Therapy)
Chemotherapy is cancer-fighting medicine given as a pill or intravenously (via a needle). In most instances, chemotherapy works by interfering with a cancer cell’s ability to grow or reproduce.
Locations: If you need intravenous (infusion) chemotherapy, you can have it at the Comprehensive Treatment Unit (CTU) at Sylvester’s main location in Miami, a 12,000-square-foot unit that includes 33 recliners and 11 private rooms. If you prefer, you may have your infusion treatments at the Kendall, Plantation, Hollywood, Coral Springs, Coral Gables, or Deerfield Beach locations.
Why Choose Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center?
Sylvester is an NCI-designated cancer center. The National Cancer Institute has reaffirmed us as South Florida’s only NCI-designated cancer center. We have been recognized for our scientific leadership, our commitment to training the next generation of cancer researchers and providers, as well as our engagement with the communities that we serve. For patients, this designation translates into greater access to leading-edge treatment options, including clinical trials that prioritize your specific cancer.
Only center in South Florida with a specialty endocrine testing center. We offer greater accuracy in your diagnosis, leading to more precise treatments and better results. Located at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, the center is staffed by specialized nurses and technical assistants who perform complex hormone tests.
Advanced radiation oncology tools. Our RapidArc® radiotherapy system delivers intensity modulated external radiation therapy (IMRT). This leads to more efficient and effective treatments, shorter treatment times, pinpoint accuracy in tumor targeting, and less damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
More cancer clinical trials than any other South Florida hospital. If appropriate for your cancer and stage, our clinical trials provide you with the newest ways to treat and potentially cure your cancer.
Questions? We're here to help.
Our appointment specialists are ready to help you find what you need. Contact us today.