A medullary carcinoma, specifically when referring to the thyroid, is a type of cancer that originates in the thyroid gland.
Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma Explained
- Origin: It begins in specialized cells within the thyroid called "C" cells (also known as parafollicular cells). These C cells are responsible for producing the hormone calcitonin. (Reference: 31-Mar-2024)
- Location: The thyroid gland is situated at the front of your lower neck. (Reference: 31-Mar-2024)
- Key Characteristic: Medullary thyroid carcinoma is characterized by its development from these calcitonin-producing C cells. (Reference: 31-Mar-2024)
In summary, medullary thyroid carcinoma is a cancer of the thyroid gland arising from calcitonin-producing C cells.
