What does follicular thyroid tumor mean?

Thyroid follicular tumors are tumors that originate from the follicular epithelial cells of the thyroid gland and are classified as benign or malignant. Benign tumors are usually seen in thyroid adenomas, which can be of follicular cell origin and are called benign thyroid follicular epithelial tumors. They can be treated by surgical removal. The malignant form is follicular thyroid carcinoma with peritumoral infiltration and vascular invasion, which may be due to a history of radiation therapy to the neck, a strong history of radiation exposure, and a family history. In the early stage, patients usually have no obvious abnormal manifestations, but with the gradual enlargement of the lesion, patients may feel a hard mass in the thyroid gland, which is difficult to push and has an uneven surface. In the later stage, the patient may have hoarse voice and dyspnea. Surgery is the preferred treatment for follicular thyroid tumors, and postoperative treatment with iodine 131 is required to continue treatment if the patient is at high risk of recurrence. After surgery, thyroxine secretion is often insufficient due to total or subtotal thyroidectomy, and levothyroxine tablets are needed for replacement therapy. Thyroid follicular tumor is a common clinical disease, it is recommended that patients pay attention to maintain a good attitude in daily life, strengthen physical exercise to improve immunity, etc., which is also conducive to the recovery of the disease.