It was not until 1945, when the incidence of cancer in the thyroid nodules became noticeable, that significant attention was paid to treating thyroid cancer. The pioneering surgeons included Theodore Kocher of Switzerland, William Halstead of Johns Hopkins, and Frank Lahey of the Lahey Clinic. Although thyroid nodules are common, malignant thyroid tumors are relatively uncommon. Treatment of the first and third groups usually involves removal of the thyroid, with a high survival rate. Undifferentiated thyroid cancer is very rare and occurs late in life.
Treatment comprises radiation and chemotherapy.
In all cases, needle aspiration biopsy and ultrasound imaging are effective ways of detection. It can influence both behavior and feelings. Music can lower blood pressure, heart and respiration rate, as well as decreasing pain perception and stimulating the immune system. Patients listening to music before, during, and after surgical procedures report a decrease in pain and anxiety. Even comatose patients respond through fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure.