The treatment may be repeated at a later time. The hormones replace those that are normally produced by the thyroid. This treatment also slows down the growth of any remaining thyroid cancer cells. The doctor may need to do followup tests to determine whether the patient is getting the proper amount of the needed hormones. Surgery may not be recommended when a patient is found to have thyroid cancer that has spread.
Regular followup is very important after treatment for thyroid cancer.
Followup care may include periodic complete physician exams, x-rays, scans, and blood tests. The CIS, a program of the National Cancer Institute, is a nationwide telephone service for cancer patients and their families, the public, and health care professionals. They can answer questions in English and Spanish and can send free printed material. In addition, CIS offices serve specific geographic areas and have information about cancer-related services and resources in their region.