Symptom 4. Lump or Swelling in the Neck: The Clear Warning Sign
A visible lump or swelling in the neck is one of the most noticeable symptoms of PSCCT, often triggering the initial alarm that something might not be right. Thyroid cancers, including PSCCT, often manifest as a lump or nodule in the thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck, below the Adam’s apple.
While many thyroid nodules are non-cancerous or benign, a rapidly enlarging or hard nodule may suggest a malignancy. A study published in the Journal of Endocrinological Investigation found that rapidly enlarging thyroid nodules were more likely to be malignant, including forms such as PSCCT.
PSCCT tumors often grow aggressively, resulting in noticeable neck swelling. This symptom alone can be alarming and should prompt immediate medical attention. However, it’s important to remember that not all neck lumps are due to PSCCT or other forms of thyroid cancer. Other conditions, such as thyroid cysts, benign thyroid nodules, or enlarged lymph nodes due to infection, can also lead to a similar presentation.
The key lies in understanding the associated signs. A neck lump due to PSCCT is often firm to hard in consistency and rapidly enlarging. It might also be associated with other symptoms like a persistent cough, changes in voice, or difficulty swallowing. (4)
