What are the four types of thyroid cancer?

Thyroid cancer can be described as differentiated thyroid cancer or medullary thyroid cancer. Differentiated thyroid cancer includes well-differentiated tumors (papillary and follicular thyroid cancer), poorly differentiated tumors, and undifferentiated tumors (anaplastic thyroid cancer). The types differ in how aggressive they are.

Papillary and follicular thyroid cancers are well-differentiated tumors. They can be treated and can usually be cured. Anaplastic thyroid cancer is made of poorly differentiated or undifferentiated tumors that grow and spread quickly. Medullary thyroid cancer develops in the C cells of the thyroid.

Thyroid cancer found at an early stage can often be treated successfully. Your healthcare team can explain more about the type of thyroid cancer in your situation.