small pap thyroid cancer

[sheilahilburn]

In Oct of thus year I had my right thyroid removed due to and enlargement.  When the  labs came back it was actually small pap thyroid cancer.  One cell was 3.2 cm and fully encapsulated.  The 2nd cell  was 1.1 mm and not encapsulated.  In Nov I had the left thyroid removed.  I have an appointment in Feb to see an endocrinologist.  I ask the surgeon if I need to see an oncologist and he said no.  Any thoughts on this?

[sheilahilburn]

3.2 cm

[898_1]

One cell was 3.2 cm and fully encapsulated 3.2 cm or 3.2 mm?

[Barb135]

Your surgeon is required, by law, to provide you with copies of all labs and other reports, upon request.  Insist on getting copies of everything for your records.

[sheilahilburn]

Thanks for the info Barb.  I had a very good Surgeon but he would not share any information with me!  I have an appointment with a endocrinologist in Feb.  Hopefully I can get a few answers to my questions from him.

[Barb135]

Thyroid cancer is the easiest to cure of all cancers.  Once the thyroid is removed and the cancer goes with it.  In some instances, a radioactive scan may be done, later, to insure that all the cancer was removed, but not always.

Since an oncologist manages the care and treatment of those with cancer, you would not need one, because your cancer has been removed.  

Typically, one is started on thyroid replacement hormones and your thyroglobulin levels will be tested periodically to screen for recurring cancer, which is rare.