C-cell medullary cancer, also known as medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), is a rare type of cancer that develops in the C cells (also called parafollicular cells) of the thyroid gland. These C cells are responsible for producing calcitonin, a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels in the body. MTC accounts for approximately 1-2% of all thyroid cancers.
Medullary thyroid cancer typically originates in the thyroid gland, which is located in the front of the neck below the Adam’s apple. It can arise sporadically or be associated with inherited genetic syndromes such as multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2).
Medullary thyroid cancer is categorized as a neuroendocrine tumor, specifically originating from the neural crest-derived C cells of the thyroid gland. This type of cancer differs from the more common papillary and follicular thyroid cancers, which originate from the follicular cells of the thyroid gland.
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are also termed as “Cancer of the Endocrine Gland.” This is because neuroendocrine cells are a type of specialized cells found in various organs throughout the body, including the endocrine glands. These cells have both nerve cell (neuro) and hormone-producing (endocrine) characteristics.
Use Frequency Set
474: Cancer: Endocrine Gland: 0.57, 0.83, 2.85, 32.5, 97.5, 322.53, 434.42, 566.41, 835.96, 978.85
